Magnifico Publications

Richard Di Giacomo graduated from San Jose State University with a BA in Ancient and Medieval history, a BA in Social Science and an MA in American History. He has been a teacher for over 25 years. He has taught in a variety of schools from private and continuation schools to public high schools. He has taught everything from at risk and limited English students to honors and college preparatory classes. The subjects he has taught include US and World History, Government, Economics, Bible and Ethics, History of the Cold War, and Contemporary World History. He has been a reviewer and contributor to textbooks, and has been a frequent presenter at social studies conferences on the use of simulations, videos, and computers in education. Rich's love for role-playing and strategy games led him to develop his unique books which combine the open-ended outcomes of role-playing with the tough decisions made by people in times of historical crisis. Students often relate that these are their most memorable and enjoyable activities of the year. They bring history to life so vividly that students cannot seem to stop talking about the simulations long after class is over!

Richard Di Giacomo graduated from San Jose State University with a BA in Ancient and Medieval history, a BA in Social Science and an MA in American History. He has been a teacher for over 25 years. He has taught in a variety of schools from private and continuation schools to public high schools. He has taught everything from at risk and limited English students to honors and college preparatory classes. The subjects he has taught include US and World History, Government, Economics, Bible and Ethics, History of the Cold War, and Contemporary World History. He has been a reviewer and contributor to textbooks, and has been a frequent presenter at social studies conferences on the use of simulations, videos, and computers in education. Rich's love for role-playing and strategy games led him to develop his unique books which combine the open-ended outcomes of role-playing with the tough decisions made by people in times of historical crisis. Students often relate that these are their most memorable and enjoyable activities of the year. They bring history to life so vividly that students cannot seem to stop talking about the simulations long after class is over!

Students learn how to practice history. They learn to evaluate and use primary sources, distinguish fact from opinion, and recognize bias and propaganda. In my classroom, the textbook is merely a reference tool. We do simulations and other hands-on activities. We learn how to dissect and criticize movies and literary sources. I believe that teachers do great harm when they try to just brain wash students to follow their political views. I am not afraid to lecture, but I demand participation. You will hear jokes, thought-provoking questions, and frequent calls for students' opinions and analysis. Nobody sleeps in my class!

Who's Who Among American Teachers (twice). National Medal of Merit and Outpost Commander's Award of Excellence for Royal Rangers. Recipient of multiple grants.

Richard Di Giacomo graduated from San Jose State University with a BA in Ancient and Medieval history, a BA in Social Science and an MA in American History.

Federal Teaching American History grant evaluator. Director of a learning center. Staff Development Committee member.