Joan G. Sheeran's career in education includes teaching at middle, secondary, and community college levels and participating in projects for the New York State Education Department. With a professional interest in world languages, she initiated the Exploring Series, an introductory language textbook and audio program at EMC Publishing. She holds a PhD from the University of Minnesota. As a native New Yorker, she appreciates the natural beauty and the history of the state. She was pleased to help with the historical research and editing of The River Quintet and hopes that readers will enjoy and be inspired by the five stories.
"""Dr. Sheeran's Companion Guide offers a multidisciplinary approach to incorporating the historical coming-of-age novels of Ray E. Phillips into the classroom. Her well organized, in-depth, and succinct presentation contains summary information, sample assessment questions, projects and class activities, references for further investigation, and much more. This highly accessible teacher's guide reveals the intense value of helping students to comprehend historical frameworks through diverse individual and collective perspectives."" -""thorough and inspiring!"" Janelle Schwartz, PhD, Independent Scholar A Companion Guide to The River Quintet Series provides a clear synopsis of all five books in this wonderful collection, including an overview of the stories and major themes addressed. Founded in strong pedagogical theory, the Guide offers engaging ideas for lessons, activities, and assessments. It also highlights the possibilities of use of the series across the curriculum, in ELA, the Humanities, and Social Science classes at the secondary level. These texts offer students a window into the experiences, culture, and challenges of Native youth after the arrival of European settlers. Students have the opportunity to explore geography, history, culture, character, citizenship, and intersectionality. Teachers will be grateful for the organized presentation of information, thoughtfully posed guided reading questions, and answer keys. Educators will have the opportunity to seamlessly integrate the novels into their curriculum with the aid of this companion guide. - an incredibly helpful resource! Stephanie Quinn, K-12 Social Sciences Department Coordinator, Chelmsford Public Schools, Chelmsford, MA"