In this lesson, students learn about the American Flag and how it represents freedom and create a flag.
Help students understand the significance of Columbus Day and gain an understanding of the location of continents. Using children’s literature such as In 1492 by Jean Marzollo and a large world map, examine the voyage of Christopher Columbus. Conclude the lesson by teaching students a song about Christopher Columbus.
America: A Patriotic Primer by Lynne Cheney is the basis for this lesson on understanding the concept of “freedom”. Students conclude the lesson by drawing what they think “freedom” looks like.
This lesson provides an opportunity for students to match community helpers with the tools of their trade as they explore how community helpers assist their community. Matching picture cards are provided.
This lesson begins with a read aloud using David Goes to School by David Shannon. Using “Draw and Talk” cards, students identify the purpose for having rules and identify authority figures at home and school.
After listening to a short story about Freedom Elementary School, students will identify the purpose for having rules at school. Using picture cards, they will interpret information and determine if the card belongs to a school with rules or one without rules.
Students examine Miss Needa Help’s email to their class requesting their help with problems she is having in her classroom. They brainstorm answers to her problems and in the process begin to understand the need for rules and laws.
Using animal signs, students will form groups around the animal they think is the best pet. From here they will utilize their problem-solving and decision-making skills to simulate the organization and functions of political parties.
To help students understand that voting allows us to make choices and decision, this lesson has students voting to choose the best flavor of ice cream. Following the votes, students will complete a tally and graph sheet.
Using The Crayon Box That Talked by Shane DeRolf, this lesson helps students become aware of the uniqueness of each individual in their classroom and identify ways they are alike and ways they are different.
In this lesson, students are provided with large cardstock puzzle pieces on which they draw information about themselves. Students share their information with others in the room and examine characteristics of good citizens in the classroom. Once completed students see that they are a piece of their classroom puzzle/community. A great way for students to get to know each other.