Home Is Where the Logs Are

How does the author support the idea that log cabins were the most basic kind of home? (RI.8)

• by explaining that log cabins were built in rural areas far from cities

• by describing how notches were cut to make the logs fit tightly together

• by explaining that only one tool was needed to build a log cabin

• by describing how George Washington made Mount Vernon look like a stone home

Why does the author compare early American log cabins to Native American longhouses? (RI.3)

• to show similarities in the basic shape of the building

• to show a difference in the building materials used

• to describe the settings where the buildings were constructed

• to describe the types of wood that the buildings were made of

Which detail supports the idea that one type of cabin roof involved more work and materials but offered some clear advantages over simpler roofs? (RI.1)

• "Flat roofs required nothing more than additional logs and additional notches, and could be covered with bark and leaves."

• "Pitched, V-shaped roofs required nails but were sturdier and better for draining water and snow."

• "Regardless of roof type, the cabins generally made for solid, cozy, and affordable homes."

• "Seven United States presidents, including Abraham Lincoln, were born in log cabins, and may politicians used the cabin as a symbol of the common man."

Which phrase best helps you understand the meaning of the word "notch" in paragraph 3? (L.5.4.b)

• "logs are interlocked"

• 'or cut, is carved"

• "one log fits"

• "bringing the logs closer"

Why did early log cabin builders most likely choose trees with few limbs? (RI.1)

• These trees required less work to turn into logs.

• These trees were taller and provided longer logs.

• These trees tended to be older than ones with limbs.

• These trees were easier to find on the frontier.

Which detail supports the ideas that log cabins were affordable to build and that they could be comfortable homes? (RI.2)

• Roofs could be made flat or in a pitched V shape, which required the use of nails.

• George Washington made his wooden home look like it was made of stone by covering the outside with a paint and sand mixture.

• Common materials like mud and leaves could be used to seal gaps between logs to keep the cabins warm.

• Cabin builders placed logs parallel to one another to mark the cabin's sides before stacking notched logs in order to form the walls.

Which is the best summary of the article? (RI.2)

• Many early Americans wanted stone homes, but log cabins were a simpler and more affordable choice. To make log cabins, builders just needed a good location, logs, and an ax. Eventually, log cabins became an important symbol of America.

• In early America, colonists wanted stone homes that looked like the castles of England and Scotland. George Washington even made his wooden home look like it was made of stone. Log cabins were a basic kind of frontier home. Seven U.S. presidents were born in log cabins, and these homes became a symbol of the common man.

• Log cabins were simple American frontier homes. American settlers used axes to make their log cabins. There were lots of excellent trees in those days. Houses needed to be built in good locations. The right site would protect the house from wind and provide a solid foundation.

• Log cabins are made with notched logs that fit together to make a strong and cozy home. Builders looked for straight trees that could be turned into sturdy logs. Logs could be placed to make the cabins square or rectangular. After the logs were stacked, the builders could cut out doors and windows and add a log roof.

Look at the illustration. Why are the notches shaped like half circles?

• so that air can get in the windows

• so that the corners of the walls won't be sharp

• so that they will hold mud like a cup

• so that a round log will fit in them snugly