Iditarod Trail Learning Activities

We are ready and waiting to begin tracking the Iditarod, the annual dogsled race that takes place in Alaska. The race is almost 1,000 miles long through rugged (try uncharted!) territory during the most brutal time of the year weather-wise. There is much opportunities for learning from preschool all the way through adulthood!
LITERATURE: This year, we are reading the book "The Year of Miss Agnes". It tells of the story of children who live in Alaska around the year 1948. It is a fantastic story that opens our eyes to the differences in living in 1948 in a remote area of Alaska, before nightly news stories and newspapers were available. It tells of the story of a teacher that opens the children's eyes to see how large the world is and yet how small we are in comparison to the universe. She teaches in a way the incites learning. As Mark Twain said, "I have never let my schooling interfere with my education." (click on the title to purchase from Amazon - new, used and kindle versions available. I found mine at the local library. :)
MATH: Great ideas for creative hands-on learning activities.
MAPPING: Map of the Iditarod trail (southern trail in 2013)
HISTORY: How did the Iditarod begin? It's a great story, full of drama, freezing cold temperatures, at risk children and of course, the dogs! Learn about it by clicking here or by watching the movie, Balto.

Team arriving in Nome, Alaska...the finish line!

Statue of Balto, in Central Park in New York City.

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