From the series World History: Need to Know
The Cold War
Reading Level Grades 2-3Interest Level Grades 5 – 7Copyright 2024
Reviewed
From the series World History: Need to Know
Reading Level Grades 2-3Interest Level Grades 5 – 7Copyright 2024
ReviewedAlmost as soon as the dust settled on World War II, the Cold War scorched with a different kind of intensity. But what were the United States and Soviet Union facing off about? And if they didn’t use traditional weapons of war, what did they bring to the battle? Explore the ideological fight that could have destroyed the world with easy-to-understand content tied to the curriculum of upper-elementary and middle school students and text written at a 2nd to 3rd grade reading level. Dyslexia-friendly font and design make learning accessible, and a recap at the end promotes checking for understanding to aid comprehension. It’s key world history curriculum made approachable for all.
This series describes a wide range of historical topics and events, like decolonization, the Industrial Revolution, and war. Paragraphs are paired with color photos or art from history, with vocabulary words bolded throughout. Lengthier paragraphs with short sentences are written at a second grade level, and fact boxes and picture captions offer information in addition to the main text. Infographics are also used to give a better understanding of a subject, like how more factories meant more people worked in factories, which made the Revolution move faster (The Industrial Revolution). The series is extremely timely, working to inform the reader without romanticizing the past and providing clarity for the present day, “The effects of colonialism are still felt today. Many countries still have strong ties to their former colonizers,” (Decolonization). Back matter includes learning and retention tips, a glossary and index, and additional resources. Younger readers may need guidance from an educator or caregiver. VERDICT A series that covers a variety of historical topics for older elementary readers.
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