3: Annette Feels Free: Investigating Civic Thinking in Women’s History Through the Story of a “Real Life Mermaid”

In this chapter, the author provides an historical context about Annette Kellerman’s life, civic actions, and impact in regards to issues with women’s rights in sports. A brief literature on the importance of utilizing critical literacy practices to support elementary students’ civic thinking skills is given. Next, the author describes activities centered on a social studies trade book about Annette Kellerman and her impact on sports in the elementary social studies classroom. Adaptations of the activities for younger and older students are also provided. The steps and resources needed to implement these activities in the elementary social studies classroom are discussed.