Wisconsin History on Stage

Wisconsin History on Stage: Scripts for Grades 4 through 8 contains eleven engaging scripts that span more than 300 years of state history, from explorer Jean Nicolet to World War II. Students who took part in the 1998 Wisconsin Stories project, sponsored by the Wisconsin Humanities Council, researched and wrote several scripts. Other scripts are revised versions of those that originally appeared in the popular Badger History series.

The editors of Wisconsin History on Stage have purposely selected scripts that educators can adapt to a variety of classroom activities and production levels. The design and format of the book, combined with a durable spiral binding, makes photocopying individual scripts easy and convenient. Over 50 images, including original illustrations, historic photographs, and maps enhance the book.

Wisconsin History on Stage also features an introductory essay by Paula DeHart, assistant professor of education at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. DeHart considers the powerful impact of drama in the history curriculum. "Presenting history as human drama," she emphasizes, "increases its value to young people tremendously." Professor DeHart also connects teaching methods that are based upon classroom drama to the new curriculum standards of the National Council for the Social Studies.