Layers of Learning Unit 4-15 begins with the history of the Cold War. We cover the different philosophies of the east and west, the Berlin Airlift, world-wide alliances, Cuban Missile Crisis, spies, the Venona Project, Korean War, and the Space Race. Next in geography learn about the territories of the United States including Guam, American Samoa, Northern Marianas Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Then study the chemistry of medicine including familiarity with medicines in your cabinet and how to treat them safely, kinds of medicines, penicillin, decomposition of aspirin, resistant bacteria, drug receptors, sulfa drugs, synthetic drugs, vaccines, and drug development. Finally create some of your own free verse. Assemble your own book of poems, learn poems by heart, learn to use spare language, play with poetry for two voices, and use imagery and other poetic devices. In each unit you'll find a recommended library list, important background information about each topic, and lots of activities to choose from for kids of all ages. Sidebars include a bunch more ideas including Additional Layers, Fabulous Facts, On The Web, Writer's Workshop, Famous Folks, and Teaching Tips. Printable maps and worksheets are included at the end of each unit and may be printed as often as needed for your family or class.