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Memorial Day Lesson Plan Ideas - National Education Association
Grades
K to 8
Memorial Day offers a profound opportunity for students to connect with American history and honor the sacrifices of military personnel. The National Education Association (NEA) provides...more
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Memorial Day offers a profound opportunity for students to connect with American history and honor the sacrifices of military personnel. The National Education Association (NEA) provides a curated collection of lesson plans and activities designed to help educators bring the significance of this day into the classroom. The resources encompass a variety of educational materials suitable for grades K-8. For younger students, the collection includes printable coloring pages, word searches, and simple crafts that introduce the symbols and traditions associated with Memorial Day. Older students can engage with more in-depth activities, such as using online graphing tools to analyze historical data on America's war casualties, fostering a deeper understanding of the holiday's origins and evolution. Additionally, the NEA provides access to historical speeches, such as Frederick Douglass's 1871 address at Arlington National Cemetery, and booklists that offer narratives to further explore the themes of service and sacrifice.
tag(s): crafts (76), memorial day (18)
In the Classroom
Create a classroom scavenger hunt where students find and decode symbols related to Memorial Day (ex., flag, eagle, poppy, dog tag). Have students write and decorate heartfelt letters to local veterans or active-duty service members. Use a simple chart or infographic to explore statistics about U.S. military history (wars fought, soldiers served, etc.). Read a picture book or short story that touches on themes of sacrifice or remembrance, such as The Wall by Eve Bunting. Assign students to write and deliver a short speech or poem answering the question, "What does freedom mean to me?" Students can share their poems using Adobe Express Video Maker reviewed here.9 Memorial Day Activities - Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Grades
3 to 8View this blog post that presents nine thoughtfully designed activities to help students in grades 3-8 explore the significance of Memorial Day. From designing Revolutionary War memorials...more
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View this blog post that presents nine thoughtfully designed activities to help students in grades 3-8 explore the significance of Memorial Day. From designing Revolutionary War memorials to crafting poster poems and analyzing the shapes within the U.S. flag, these activities blend social studies, literacy, and art. Each task encourages critical thinking and personal reflection, making the holiday's history and symbolism accessible and impactful for young learners. With accompanying student handouts and adaptable lesson plans, this resource is a valuable tool for educators aiming to foster a deeper understanding of Memorial Day in their classrooms.
tag(s): american flag (8), american revolution (83), critical thinking (137), memorial day (18), symbols (16)
In the Classroom
Have students respond to a prompt such as "Why is it important to remember those who served?" Have students research a Revolutionary War figure or battle and design a fictional memorial to honor it. Assign students to write a short poem honoring fallen soldiers and combine it with visual symbols on a poster (ex., poppies, flags, eagles). Make a digital class collection of the poem by making a presentation on Canva Edu reviewed here.US Memorial Day for Kids - Twinkl Educational Teaching Resources
Grades
2 to 7This educational video explores the significance of Memorial Day, focusing on how Americans honor fallen soldiers through parades, writing thank-you letters to active service members,...more
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This educational video explores the significance of Memorial Day, focusing on how Americans honor fallen soldiers through parades, writing thank-you letters to active service members, and visiting military cemeteries like Arlington and Gettysburg. It explains important symbols such as the American flag, lowered to half-staff until noon, and the red poppy, which became a remembrance flower thanks to Moina Michael's 1915 poem. The video also highlights the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m. and includes an informative quiz reviewing key facts, like the holiday's original name ("Decoration Day") and its Civil War origins. The video is a great resource to help young learners connect with this solemn day respectfully and memorably. If your district blocks YouTube, then the video may not be viewable.
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tag(s): holidays (194), memorial day (18)
In the Classroom
Give students a worksheet with pictures or descriptions of key Memorial Day symbols (ex., red poppy, American flag at half-staff, soldier's grave, parade). Have students check off symbols they see and write what each one represents as they watch the video. After learning about Moina Michael and her poppy poem, have students write their short tribute poems or acrostics using POPPY or HONOR. Take students on a virtual tour of Arlington National Cemetery or Gettysburg using online resources.Jewish American Heritage Month - Library of Congress
Grades
4 to 12The Jewish American Heritage Month website is a valuable resource for educators looking to integrate Jewish American history and culture into their curriculum. It provides access to...more
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The Jewish American Heritage Month website is a valuable resource for educators looking to integrate Jewish American history and culture into their curriculum. It provides access to primary sources, lesson plans, videos, and exhibits from institutions like the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and the Smithsonian. Teachers can use these materials to explore Jewish contributions to American society, discuss historical events, and engage students in activities that promote cultural understanding. The site also includes virtual exhibits and suggested readings, making it a versatile tool for classroom learning.
In the Classroom
Students can explore primary sources from the Library of Congress or the National Archives on Jewish American contributions. In pairs, they can analyze an artifact (ex., a historical photo, letter, or newspaper article) and present their findings. Assign students a prominent Jewish American figure (Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Albert Einstein, Emma Lazarus). They can research their impact using resources from the site and create a short podcast using Spotify for Podcasters, reviewed here or video using Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed here. Students can also interview other students, as if they were that historical figure. Students can explore Jewish contributions to literature, science, politics, and civil rights and create digital slides with Visme, reviewed here or Genially, reviewed here highlighting key figures, inventions, or cultural traditions.14th Amenendment to the US Constitution - Library of Congress
Grades
8 to 12The website hosted by the Library of Congress provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which addresses citizenship rights, equal...more
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The website hosted by the Library of Congress provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which addresses citizenship rights, equal protection under the law, and the limits of state power. The resource introduces the 14th Amendment's historical context, its drafting during Reconstruction, and its lasting impact on civil rights. It features side tabs that organize key content, including primary sources, historical timeline details, educational analysis, and related legal cases, making it a valuable tool for teaching and learning about this pivotal Amendment in U.S. history. This site is an excellent resource for educators seeking reliable, well-organized content to support constitutional law and civil rights lessons.
tag(s): civil rights (219), constitution (99), states (125)
In the Classroom
Print out copies of historical documents from the Library of Congress (ex., drafts of the amendment, letters, or court decisions). Divide students into groups and have them analyze the documents, answering guided questions about their significance, language, and historical context. Students can script and record a short podcast episode using tools like Anchor, reviewed here or Acast, reviewed here, discussing how the 14th Amendment relates to a specific historical or modern civil rights issue. Assign students landmark Supreme Court cases involving the 14th Amendment, such as Brown v. Board of Education or Roe v. Wade. Using tools like Padlet, reviewed here or Google Slides, reviewed here, students can collaboratively research and present the facts, rulings, and their implications for civil rights today.Teachers- Holocaust Museum Houston - Holocaust Museum Houston
Grades
K to 12The Holocaust Museum Houston's Educators page provides a comprehensive collection of resources tailored for teachers at both elementary and secondary levels. It offers specialized lesson...more
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The Holocaust Museum Houston's Educators page provides a comprehensive collection of resources tailored for teachers at both elementary and secondary levels. It offers specialized lesson plans, classroom activities, and professional development opportunities to enhance Holocaust education. These materials are designed to support educators in delivering accurate and engaging content about the Holocaust, fostering critical thinking and empathy among students. Additionally, the museum provides contact information and avenues for further assistance, ensuring educators can access the support they need. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.
tag(s): critical thinking (137), ebooks (47), empathy (37), holocaust (43), immigrants (48), immigration (84), jews (52), professional development (393), religions (113)
In the Classroom
Using the museum's digital artifact collection, students can select an item (for example, a diary, identification card, or photograph) and analyze its significance. Then they can write a short reflection or narrative from the perspective of the artifact's owner. Students can examine examples of Nazi propaganda versus resistance writings (e.g., underground newspapers, speeches, or poems). They then create their counter-propaganda messages promoting human rights and resilience. Students research a current human rights issue and compare it to lessons learned from the Holocaust. They then design a "Take Action" campaign, including posters, social media posts, or letters advocating for change. Posters and social media templates can be found on Canva Edu, reviewed here.The Jewish Americans - The Jewish American Project
Grades
6 to 12The Jewish Educator Portal offers four lesson plans based on the 2008 PBS series The Jewish Americans. These lessons guide students through identity, assimilation, immigration, discrimination,...more
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The Jewish Educator Portal offers four lesson plans based on the 2008 PBS series The Jewish Americans. These lessons guide students through identity, assimilation, immigration, discrimination, and cultural change. The plans can initiate broader explorations of American Jewish history and facilitate comparisons with other immigrant groups' experiences.
tag(s): cultures (226), immigrants (48), immigration (84), jews (52)
In the Classroom
Have students create a collaborative digital using Timeline, reviewed here or Timeline Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here or a physical timeline tracing key events from The Jewish Americans PBS series. They can add images, quotes, and reflections to make historical moments more meaningful. Students can research and present a personal or family immigration story (or a historical immigrant's journey) through a short video using Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed here, podcast with Buzzsprout reviewed here, or written narrative. If clips from The Jewish Americans series are available, students can watch, take notes, and respond to guiding questions. They can discuss themes like identity, discrimination, and resilience in small groups or write a reflective journal entry.Jewish American Heritage Month - Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Grades
K to 12The Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) Toolkit, provided by the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, offers educators a variety of downloadable resources to celebrate...more
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The Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) Toolkit, provided by the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, offers educators a variety of downloadable resources to celebrate and raise awareness of JAHM each May. The toolkit includes social media posts, posters, a resource guide, and logos. Additionally, companion resources are available for the poster series featuring notable Jewish Americans. Educators seeking professional development opportunities and further teaching materials can find them through the toolkit. For specific needs, the JAHM team is available year-round to assist schools and organizations in finding appropriate resources.
tag(s): cultures (226), jews (52), social media (50)
In the Classroom
Use the JAHM posters and resource guides to create an interactive bulletin board. Encourage students to add facts, reflections, or connections to what they're learning in other subjects. Incorporate Jewish American heritage into literature, social studies, and art. Read works by Jewish American authors, analyze their impact, or explore how Jewish American experiences connect with broader historical events. Have students research notable Jewish Americans featured in the toolkit's posters. They can create timelines using Preceden, reviewed here or Sutori, reviewed here, or create short essays highlighting these individuals' contributions to history, science, arts, or politics.American Jewish History and Culture - NYU Libraries
Grades
7 to 12The NYU American Jewish History research guide provides a curated collection of primary sources, including historical documents, newspapers, photographs, and archival materials related...more
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The NYU American Jewish History research guide provides a curated collection of primary sources, including historical documents, newspapers, photographs, and archival materials related to Jewish American history. This resource is ideal for teachers looking to incorporate authentic historical evidence into their lessons, helping students analyze Jewish immigration, cultural contributions, and civil rights efforts. With links to digital archives and research databases, this guide supports inquiry-based learning and critical thinking in middle and high school social studies, history, and civics classes.
tag(s): civil rights (219), critical thinking (137), cultures (226), immigration (84), inquiry (30), jews (52)
In the Classroom
Students can choose a primary source, such as an immigrant's letter or an editorial, and write a response as if they were a contemporary witness to that moment in history. In small groups, students can select primary sources from the NYU guide to design a virtual museum exhibit on a theme such as Jewish immigration, civil rights, or cultural contributions. They can present their "exhibit" using Google Slides, reviewed here or Venngage, reviewed here. Students can also explore the guide's digital archives to find a historical newspaper article, photograph, or document related to Jewish American history. Students can share their findings in small groups, discussing the historical significance and connections to broader U.S. history.Alaska Purchase Treaty: Primary Documents in American History - Library of Congress
Grades
5 to 12The Alaska Purchase Treaty: Primary Documents is a free resource from the Library of Congress for social studies teachers of 5th through 12th grades. This resource includes primary...more
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The Alaska Purchase Treaty: Primary Documents is a free resource from the Library of Congress for social studies teachers of 5th through 12th grades. This resource includes primary documents for William Steward, the Treaty concerning the succession of Russian possessions, and the message from the U.S. President regarding the new territory transferred from Russia. These primary documents comprise a set of original documents in the form of photographs and images of the historical record. This site contains an introduction, digital collections, external websites, and print resources for how the United States gained this territory in 1867. This is a public resource; therefore, no registration is required.
tag(s): alaska (22), gold rush (17), primary sources (119), visual literacy (4)
In the Classroom
You can use this resource to teach and engage students about American History and the acquisition of Alaska through primary documents. This resource includes historical documents, newspaper articles, photographs, congressional publications, books, manuscripts, and more. Enhance critical thinking and reading skills by embedding this resource into visual literacy lessons and extend learning by analyzing primary documents and historical evidence. Utilize think-alouds, photo, and image analysis questions, or word clouds such as AhaSlides, reviewed here or Mentimeter, reviewed here to have students create their own images based on their understanding of the document.Bill of Rights: Primary Documents in American History - Library of Congress
Grades
3 to 12The Library of Congress has created this site that includes information about the Bill of Rights and digital materials such as external websites, images, and many other primary documents....more
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The Library of Congress has created this site that includes information about the Bill of Rights and digital materials such as external websites, images, and many other primary documents. Click on the links on the left side to access the topics, including Digital Collections, Related Online Resources, External Websites, and Print Resources. No registration is required to use the resources at this site.
tag(s): bill of rights (34), constitution (99), primary sources (119), Research (88)
In the Classroom
Share this link with your students when studying the Bill of Rights. During Constitution Day activities, have pairs of students create captions that could be used with the documents using a tool such as Boxie reviewed here. Another option for younger students would be to use Padlet reviewed here to share reactions to some of the images at the site. With Padlet, students can reply using audio or video, so even the youngest students can participate. Students could use this to research how the Bill of Rights was developed and which individual rights were hot topics in 1891.Dwight D. Eisenhower: A Resource Guide - Library of Congress
Grades
5 to 12The Library of Congress's "Dwight D. Eisenhower Research Guide" offers educators a comprehensive introduction to the life, leadership, and legacy of the 34th U.S. President. This site...more
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The Library of Congress's "Dwight D. Eisenhower Research Guide" offers educators a comprehensive introduction to the life, leadership, and legacy of the 34th U.S. President. This site provides curated primary sources--including photographs, speeches, and letters--organized into categories like military career, presidency, and personal life. Teachers can use this guide to support lessons on World War II, Cold War diplomacy, or mid-20th-century U.S. history, making it a valuable resource for helping students analyze historical documents and better understand Eisenhower's impact on American and global event.
tag(s): cold war (31), presidents (136), world war 1 (77)
In the Classroom
Students can explore the links on the Library of Congress's website. Students can create a timeline using Timeline Infographic Templates reviewed here of important milestones of President Eisenhower. Students can create a living museum in which they research and then reenact a part of Eisenhower's life. Dive deeper into primary source analysis by having students read excerpts from Eisenhower's speeches or presidential papers. Students can compare his farewell address (especially the "military-industrial complex" warning) with modern political concerns, promoting critical thinking and historical connections.Emancipation Proclamation: Primary Documents in American History - Library of Congress
Grades
5 to 12Library of Congress's Emancipation Proclamation: Primary Documents in American History is a free website that contains digital materials from the Library of Congress, links to related...more
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Library of Congress's Emancipation Proclamation: Primary Documents in American History is a free website that contains digital materials from the Library of Congress, links to related external websites, and a print bibliography. Documents from the Emancipation Proclamation include a draft of a message to Congress from President Lincoln, various notes and drafts of the Emancipation Proclamation, and the official copy. The site also offers a list of books for adults and young readers on the topic.
tag(s): emancipation proclamation (14), lincoln (67)
In the Classroom
Students can explore the links on the Library of Congress's website. Students can create a timeline using Timeline Infographic Templates reviewed here from the start to the finish of the passage of the Emancipation Proclamation. Students can compare and contrast three pivotal documents to understand the progression of emancipation in the United States. Compare using a tool such as ClassTools Interactive Venn Diagrams reviewed here. You can click on the right side to choose between a two or three-circle Venn diagram. Students can creatively express their understanding of the Emancipation Proclamation through art. After studying the Emancipation Proclamation, students can create a visual representation (ex., a poster, comic strip, or illustration) that captures the essence and impact of the document. These items may be completed online using resources such as Canva Edu reviewed here or Free Comic Strip Maker reviewed here.Library of Congress's 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: Primary Documents in American - Library of Congress's 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution:
Grades
5 to 12Library of Congress's 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: Primary Documents in American History provides access to digital collections at the Library of Congress, external websites,...more
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Library of Congress's 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: Primary Documents in American History provides access to digital collections at the Library of Congress, external websites, and print materials related to the amendment. Resources include debates in the Senate, the House amendment, conference reports, and the proclamation issued. There are also links to exhibits, photographs, books, a teacher's page, and other primary sources.
tag(s): constitution (99), primary sources (119), senate (11)
In the Classroom
Students can explore the links that are on the Library of Congress's website. Students can create a timeline using Time Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here from start to finish of the passage of the 15th Amendment. Students can also examine artistic representations related to the 15th Amendment, such as political cartoons or commemorative posters. They can discuss the messages conveyed through these artworks and their historical context.African American Innovation, Invention, and Entrepreneurship in the Manuscript Division - Library of Congress
Grades
4 to 12The African American Innovation and Invention guide from the Library of Congress highlights the significant contributions of African Americans in science, technology, engineering, and...more
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The African American Innovation and Invention guide from the Library of Congress highlights the significant contributions of African Americans in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This resource provides access to primary sources, including patents, photographs, and historical documents, showcasing groundbreaking achievements in medicine, agriculture, and transportation. Teachers can use this collection to introduce students to influential inventors, start discussions on perseverance and creativity, and encourage research projects on African American innovators. The site supports cross-curricular learning by connecting history, science, and social studies, making it a valuable tool for exploring both historical and modern advancements.
tag(s): african american (121), agriculture (52), photography (131), STEM (312), transportation (30)
In the Classroom
Students can explore the website to identify an African American inventor and their creation. They can create a mini-poster or trading card featuring the inventor, their invention, and its impact on society. Students can also research African American inventors and their challenges, including a lack of patents, racial discrimination, and funding barriers. They can write a persuasive speech or essay arguing the importance of diverse representation in STEM. Students can create a physical or digital timeline using Sutori, reviewed here or Turbo Timeline Generator, reviewed here of African American innovations, organizing inventions chronologically and highlighting technological advancements.African American History Online: A Resource Guide - Library of Congress
Grades
4 to 12The African American History Online Primary Source Collection from the Library of Congress provides educators with photographs, manuscripts, maps, and audio recordings documenting African...more
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The African American History Online Primary Source Collection from the Library of Congress provides educators with photographs, manuscripts, maps, and audio recordings documenting African American history. This site allows teachers to integrate authentic primary sources into lessons on topics such as slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, cultural contributions, and political activism. Students can engage in critical analysis, historical inquiry, and multimedia exploration with materials spanning centuries. The collection is ideal for fostering discussions on African American experiences, resilience, and the ongoing impact of historical events on society today.
tag(s): african american (121), civil rights (219), maps (224), multimedia (55), photography (131)
In the Classroom
Have students select a historical letter or document and write a response as if they were living in that time, incorporating historical context and personal reflection. Students can listen to oral history recordings from the collection and take notes on key themes, emotions, and historical details. Then, they can summarize or create a first-person monologue based on what they learned. Students can choose a historical primary source (ex., a protest sign, newspaper article, or speech) and compare it to a modern event or movement with a similar theme, such as voting rights, racial justice, or activism. Have students curate a virtual museum exhibit using primary sources from the collection. They can organize sources around themes like civil rights, African American inventors, or cultural contributions and write exhibit captions. Categorize the sources in Google Slides, reviewed here or Sway, reviewed here.African American Communities in America's Cities: Photographs by Camilo J. Vergara - Library of Congress
Grades
4 to 12The Camilo Jose Vergara Photograph Collection on the Library of Congress website documents African American communities through a powerful time-lapse photography project spanning several...more
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The Camilo Jose Vergara Photograph Collection on the Library of Congress website documents African American communities through a powerful time-lapse photography project spanning several decades. Vergara's images capture the evolving landscapes of neighborhoods, businesses, and cultural landmarks, providing a unique visual history of urban change, resilience, and struggle. This collection is a valuable resource for teachers looking to explore themes of community development, social change, and historical documentation. By analyzing time-lapse images, students can observe the transformation of places over time, fostering discussions on urbanization, gentrification, and the impact of historical events on African American communities.
tag(s): african american (121), communities (38), photography (131)
In the Classroom
Have students select a set of Vergara's time-lapse photographs of a specific location and analyze the changes over time. They can discuss possible reasons for these transformations (ex., economic shifts, policy changes, gentrification). Students can research factors contributing to urban decay and revitalization, using Vergara's photos as a case study. They can create a cause-and-effect diagram using MindMup, reviewed here showing how policies, economics, and social movements shape communities. Students can take photos of a specific location in their neighborhood over time (or find historical photos to compare to modern ones). They can create collages using PhotoCollage, reviewed here or Photo Joiner, reviewed here to analyze how and why changes have occurred.African American Civil Rights Events of the 20th Century: Selected Pictures - Library of Congress
Grades
4 to 12Discover this vast collection of historical images documenting key moments, figures, and events in the fight for civil rights. The site offers primary source materials, including photographs...more
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Discover this vast collection of historical images documenting key moments, figures, and events in the fight for civil rights. The site offers primary source materials, including photographs from protests, leaders, and everyday activists, making it a valuable resource for classroom discussions and research projects. The site also includes bibliographies and related resources to deepen students' understanding of African American history and civil rights movements.
tag(s): african american (121), civil rights (219), photography (131)
In the Classroom
Print or digitally display a selection of images around the room. Students can walk around, write observations on sticky notes, and discuss the significance of each image in small groups. Students can choose a photograph and write a found poem, free verse, or persona poem (from the perspective of someone in the image). Encourage the use of simile, metaphor, and personification when writing. Have students select a historical image and compare it to a modern photo of a similar issue (ex., protests, voting rights, racial justice). They can create a mini research project connecting past and present using a template in Canva Edu, reviewed here or Visme, reviewed here.National Archives - The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration
Grades
3 to 6The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) website is valuable for teachers seeking primary sources, historical documents, and government records to enhance their...more
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The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) website is valuable for teachers seeking primary sources, historical documents, and government records to enhance their lessons. It provides access to a vast collection of materials, including the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights, as well as photographs, letters, and military records. Teachers can use NARA's educational resources, lesson plans, and digital exhibits to bring history to life in the classroom. The site also includes interactive tools, such as DocsTeach, which allows students to analyze and engage with historical documents meaningfully. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): bill of rights (34), constitution (99), declaration of independence (16), photography (131)
In the Classroom
Use DocsTeach to select a primary source related to your lesson (Declaration of Independence, Emancipation Proclamation, letters from historical figures) and have students answer questions about who wrote the document, why it was created, and how it relates to today's world. Show students a virtual tour or video from the National Archives YouTube Channel and take notes using Webnotes, reviewed here or TurboNote, reviewed here for a class discussion afterwards. Select a historical photograph, letter, or document from DocsTeach or archives.gov and provide students with limited context. In groups, students can play detective by analyzing clues (dates, signatures, language, historical events) to figure out the document's purpose and significance.Teach Democracy - Teach Democracy
Grades
3 to 12The Teach Democracy section on the Share My Lesson website provides educators with a wide range of resources to teach civics, democracy, and government to students. View lesson plans,...more
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The Teach Democracy section on the Share My Lesson website provides educators with a wide range of resources to teach civics, democracy, and government to students. View lesson plans, activities, and multimedia materials designed to help students understand democratic principles, the Constitution, and the importance of civic participation. These resources are ideal for grades K-12 and include engaging materials like simulations, debates, and primary source analyses. The website helps teachers foster critical thinking, civic engagement, and active citizenship, aligned with national and state standards. The videos are hosted on YouTube.
tag(s): bill of rights (34), civil rights (219), constitution (99), democracy (24)