NATHANIEL BOWDITCH CURRICULUM
The life of Nathaniel Bowditch—mathematician, astronomer, navigator, and financial leader—offers a compelling window into the scientific and maritime world of post-Revolutionary America. His achievements form the basis of an interdisciplinary curriculum designed for students in grades 5–9, connecting mathematics, science, and social studies through the story of a remarkable Salem citizen.
Developed in 2001 by The Bowditch Initiative of Historic Salem, Inc., in partnership with The House of Seven Gables Historic Site in Salem, Massachusetts.
CURRICULUM
Curriculum Features
- Salem-focused
- Compliant with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for grades 5-9 (as of 2001)
- Units and lesson plans are interdisciplinary and unsequenced for flexibility of use
- Lessons lend themselves to technology. Students can create spreadsheets, graphs, and graphic presentations.
- Rooted in the kind of real-life story that appeals to this age level.
Curriculum Materials
- Full curriculum, low resolution
- Curriculum Introduction
- Unit 1: Bowditch and Salem
- Unit 2: Bowditch – Mathematician
- Unit 3: Patterns in Mathematics
- Unit 4: Astronomy – Stars
- Unit 5: Astronomy – Almanacs
- Unit 6: Patterns in Architecture
- Unit 7: Math Simplification
- Unit 8: Navigation
- Unit 9: Math Skills and Habits
- Extra Material
