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Our Land Publications Review

I recently had the opportunity to review My Texas by Our Land Publications. I wasn't sure what to expect at first.  History is such an interesting subject and yet it can come across so dry and dull through many curriculums.  However, this certainly was not the case with My Texas.

What I immediately noticed was its chronological order and how well organized it was put together.  As I read through the introductory, it gave a great overview for steps to success with it.  The teacher's manual came in a white binder put together and ready to use and provided an overview of all the lessons. 

The lessons are in the form of a news article.  Each issue's size is equivalent to two sheets of 8.5 X11 paper with information on the front and back.  Within that space, one textbook chapter is actually covered, but because it is kept informal and succinct it is interesting and does not come across dry or boring.   The issues are numbered  so it allows for easy planning.  I simply made a lesson file by taking number dividers through 25 and adding each issue to its appropriate divider.  The great thing was it tied in perfectly with our American history study as well. It touched upon the same explorers we were studying about in American history. 

Some of the great things about this program are:
Structure:  It presents everything chronologically
Organization: Everything came put together.
User Friendly:
Hands on (the student will write in it and assemble it in their own folder, binder or envelope (which promotes ownership) The author's goal is to make them feel it is truly "My Texas" or whichever state they are studying.
Encourages discussion (through the use of the questions)
Issues are divided into bite sized teachings
Topics are presented informaly and interestingly
Provides copies of maps, charts and drawings

The age level recommendation is upper elementary or middle school class (in which the  study of Texas state history is focused on.)  My 8 and 10 yr old are using it  and they are enjoying it very much.

I can not think of how to improve this program so far.  We have obviously not finished it but I am extremely impressed with what I have seen of it so far.  I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a state history program. 

Other states are offered as well such as My California, My Illinois, My Indiana and a Land of Liberty in various set accomodations.
The price for the set of the  teacher's manual and all  25 Issues of My Texas was $179.00.   Individual pieces can also be purchased separately here.


 I was given a set of My Texas for review purposes only.  The opinons expressed here are solely my own.