Learn how shadow puppets consoled a great Chinese emperor for the loss of his wife and make puppets of your own. Do you know why the first pagoda was built or what Confucius has to do with modern philosophy? You will after you've played and learned with this Layers of Learning Curriculum. Build a playground sized lever, decide whether Paul Bunyan was really a hero, learn why a "tree is a sensitive thing," make paper, and discover the Terracotta Army, plus tons more In each unit you'll find a recommended library list, important background information about each topic, lots of activities to choose from for kids of all ages, and sidebars with 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.