Obviously there is not a subject called "Time and Chronology" in the elementary school. A study of time and chronology includes an examination of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values that are useful in every area of the curriculum. A skillful teacher needs to be aware of what should be taught in order to plan special lessons and use opportunities as they arise. Here is one example of how opportunities might arise in a current affairs class.

Situation

Children bring in a news item concerning the launching of a hot-air balloon.

Examples of Ideas Which Could be Taught

Sequence: Preparations for flight must be made in sequential order. A person may want to obtain sequential pictures of the launch for the news story. Talk about what the news person would need to do to get the pictures and write the story.

History: An understanding of early balloon flights might help children understand the past and the sequence of progress throughout history.

Safety: People nearby must be aware of various hazards throughout the sequential steps of the launching. (Fire hazards, hazards of tripping, avoiding trees and wires.)

Affective Domain: Talk about feelings before and after take-off. What feelings might the pilot or the audience experience?

Schedules: Who needs to be notified of the launching? Why might promptness be important? Why might people in chase vehicles need to be on time?

Thinking Skills: What were the aspects of the event which observers most wanted to remember and share? How might these compare with a list the balloonist might have made? In what sequence might they be told?

Writing and Speaking Skills: Share the experience with others. Tell or write it in the correct order.

Science: What time of day is best for balloon flights? When are thermals likely to occur?

Being aware of the content which needs to be taught will make a teacher aware of many opportunities to teach time throughout the school day.