Participant's Guide to the
Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute
2009

What to Read

Elementary and Middle/High Programs

In your orientation packet, you will receive the Official Guide to Colonial Williamsburg and The American Revolution: A History. Please read The American Revolution: A History and the introduction to the Official Guide to Colonial Williamsburg before your arrival. It is not necessary to bring these books with you to the Teacher Institute. Let us know if you do not receive these books as part of your orientation materials.

In addition to reading the two selections above, please take a few moments to reflect and answer the following question: What does it mean to you to be a United States citizen, or in other words, How would you define the character of a United States citizen? Please bring your written answer with you to the orientation session on the first night.

You may also want to take a few moments to visit the 18th-century town of Williamsburg online at Tour the Town. From the comfort of your computer, you may enter the Capitol, the Governor’s Palace, the Courthouse, the Magazine, trade shops, and many other establishments to learn about the birthplace of the American Revolution. Other spots of interest on the Web site include Meet the People, See the Places, and Experience the Life.

You may also want to take a look at our suggested reading list.

In addition, be sure to check with your local school district for its requirements to receive professional development credit (continuing education credit, clock hours, professional development hours, etc.) for your participation. Teacher Institute will provide you a schedule of events and a certificate of completion as proof of your participation. However, if additional paperwork is required (if Colonial Williamsburg needs to submit paperwork to be an approved provider in your district or state), please contact us 60 days prior to your arrival to confirm what efforts need to be done. We cannot guarantee your school district will accept your time spent in Williamsburg if you contact them after you have attended.