Lesson Overview
This lesson offers students a chance to "meet" citizens who have made great contributions to the United States of America. Some of these people lived in the 1700's, 1800's, or 1900's...but the gifts and talents they shared with our nation have enriched our lives in many ways. Whether on the political front, or in the area of human rights, or even from their inventions which have made our lives easier , these Americans have changed our country for the better, and have helped our democracy flourish.
After a general discussion about our country/50 states, and examining a map of the U.S., vocabulary words relating to a "democracy" can be discussed. Simple definitions for this grade level are offered, and also some read-aloud texts that will help young students understand the "story" of our country's beginning. Students will then be introduced to individuals who helped strengthen the United States by the caring and courageous actions they undertook, or by creating inventions that have helped us have better jobs and living conditions.
A simple, culminating ART PROJECT ["U.S. HELPERS" medals of honor] will reinforce facts that students have learned about some of their "favorite" historical citizens.
Essential Question
Students will gather information and learn about individuals who have given their ideas and talents to help the United States become a strong and wonderful country to call HOME.
Grade(s):
Subject(s):
Recommended Technology:
Other Instructional Materials or Notes:
1
*Smartboard and computer to view:
1. portraits/pictures, and videos of contributing Americans
2. large map of the United States/ 13 colonies/ S.C.
Supplies for the" U.S. HELPER AWARD" project -
- 6" paper plates [dessert size], SOLO brand is inexpensive, 1 per child per project, or more if desired
-YELLOW markers, crayons, or watercolors....to color the "gold" part of the medal
-RED, WHITE, BLUE/ construction paper strips, 5-6" long [ ONE R/W/B/ set,ALREADY STAPLED TOGETHER, for each student's "AWARD/MEDAL" creation ]
- multi-cultural crayons, and/or large assortment of colors [ to color faces, hair, hat, etc. of each "U.S.HELPER"
-black sharpie
-stapler
RECOMMENDED BOOKS FOR STUDENT RESEARCH :
I'M CURIOUS ABOUT., Biography Series, by Daisy White
BRAVE CLARA BARTON, by Frank Murphy
JOHNNY APPLESEED, by Jodie Shepherd
MY FIRST BIOGRAPHY SERIES, by Marion Dane Bauer
NICE WORK, FRANKLIN! by Larry Day/ Suzanne Tripp, Dial Books for YOung Readers
GIRLS THINK OF EVERYTHING, by Catherine Timmesh/Melissa Sweet
HENRY'S FREEDOM BOX, by Ellen Levine/Kadir Nelson
ORDINARY PEOPLE CHANGE THE WORLD, by Brad Meltzer
MY FIRST BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES: GREAT MEN & WOMEN EVERY CHILD SHOULD KNOW, [Cartwheel Learning Bookshelf]
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Log In to View LessonStandards
- 1-3 The student will demonstrate an understanding of the principles of American democracy and the role of citizens in upholding those principles.
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Log In to View LessonLesson Created By: katherine bradley