Target Audience Illinois Learning Standards Other Learning Activities & Resourses Bulletin Board Ideas Credits About the Website Designer American Quilts Main Page

Target Audience
When I designed this website, I had my fourth grade students in mind.  Aladdin Paperbacks and Simon & Schuster, the publisher, suggest the books for eight to twelve year olds.  We study Illinois history in fourth grade.  One of our favorite field trips is to the Funk Prairie Home just south of Shirley, Illinois.  Mrs. Kirby, the author of the series, American Quilts, is the great-great-granddaughter of Isaac Funk.

All graphics were produced by Tamara L. Barcalow.  Please do not use them for commercial purposes.

I have taught fourth grade at Northwest Elementary School in Lincoln, Illinois since 1993.  I graduated from the University of Illinois with a BS in Elementary Education in May 1992 and a Masters of Education in Curriculum & Instruction in August 1998.     I grew up in Central Illinois.  I think the flat farmland of the area is beautiful.  I am very interested in the prairie and its history.  While growing up, I visited Funk's Grove many times.  My family has always prefered the pure "maple sirup" sold there.  Funk's Grove is a beautiful and magical area.     Technology is another interest of mine.  I believe that the Internet can be a valuable resourse for teachers.  Beginning in the fall of 1999, I started an online Masters of Education program from the University of Illinois called Curriculum, Technology, & Education Reform. This project is the result of one of my final classes.     If you have any questions, suggestions, comments, or would like to contact Mrs. Kirby, please feel free to email me at tbarcalo@abelink.com.  I hope you and your students find American Quilts both educational and fun.

Ms. Barcalow and Mrs. Kirby at   a book signing during Lincoln's  Sesquicentennial, August 2003.

American Quilts Main Page