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African American History Online: A Resource Guide - Library of Congress
Grades
4 to 12
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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...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 (131), civil rights (224), maps (220), multimedia (70), photography (136)
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.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
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African American Communities in America's Cities: Photographs by Camilo J. Vergara - Library of Congress
Grades
4 to 12
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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...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 (131), communities (37), photography (136)
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.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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African American Civil Rights Events of the 20th Century: Selected Pictures - Library of Congress
Grades
4 to 12
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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...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): 1920s (26), 1930s (40), 1940s (70), 1950s (33), 1960s (54), 20th century (171), african american (131), civil rights (224), photography (136)
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.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Ancient Maya: Knowledge through Art- Lesson Plan - PBS Newshour Classroom
Grades
9 to 12
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This lesson plan from PBS NewsHour Classroom introduces students to the art and knowledge of the ancient Mayan civilization. Through video transcripts, discussions, and hands-on activities,...more
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This lesson plan from PBS NewsHour Classroom introduces students to the art and knowledge of the ancient Mayan civilization. Through video transcripts, discussions, and hands-on activities, students will explore how Mayan art reflects their understanding of astronomy, mathematics, and daily life. The lesson includes critical thinking prompts and extension activities to help students make connections between ancient and modern cultures. With its engaging and interdisciplinary approach, this resource is perfect for bringing history, art, and science together in the classroom!
In the Classroom
Prepare a Maya Chocolate drink for everyone to try with the recipe listed on the web page (Check for allergies!). Create a short diary or scrapbook of daily life. Use ePubEditor, reviewed here or create a presentation using Google Slides, reviewed here template to make this online. Copy a glyph on a poster board and include an explanation. Create a map of a Mayan city on paper or digitally using MapHubs, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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The Mayan Empire - PBS LearningMedia
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6 to 12
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Discover the Maya Empire with PBS LearningMedia! This educational resource provides an engaging introduction to the Mayan Empire, perfect for upper elementary and middle school students....more
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Discover the Maya Empire with PBS LearningMedia! This educational resource provides an engaging introduction to the Mayan Empire, perfect for upper elementary and middle school students. Through a short, informative video, students will explore the achievements of the Mayan civilization in architecture, astronomy, and writing. The resource includes discussion questions and activities to reinforce learning and encourage critical thinking. With its high-quality, standards-aligned content, this tool is a great way to bring history to life in the classroom!
In the Classroom
Set up stations around the classroom with images and short descriptions of Mayan achievements (architecture, astronomy, writing, calendar system). Have students rotate in small groups, taking notes and discussing how each achievement impacted Mayan society. Introduce students to the Mayan writing system by showing examples of glyphs. Then, have them create glyphs to represent their names or a short message. They can trade with classmates to decode each other's symbols! Have students create a Venn diagram comparing the Mayan civilization to modern society. Topics could include government, architecture, writing, and timekeeping. Consider using Canva, reviewed here to make the Venn diagram online. Students can work in pairs or small groups to create a mini "Maya codex" using folded paper, illustrating aspects of Mayan daily life, beliefs, or achievements. Encourage students to include drawings and glyphs to mimic the real codices.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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The Mayan Civilization - Stuff You Should Know
Grades
9 to 12
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Stuff You Should Know: The Mayan Civilization is a fifty-three minute video podcast on YouTube. The video starts by highlighting the other podcasts they have done on the Ancient Mayan...more
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Stuff You Should Know: The Mayan Civilization is a fifty-three minute video podcast on YouTube. The video starts by highlighting the other podcasts they have done on the Ancient Mayan and sharing other Ancient Mayan podcasts they will be doing. Over the course of the fifty plus minute podcast, narrators Josh and Chuck share the highlights of the civilization, the cities, whether or not the civilization is really gone, the geography, the different periods/ages of the civilizations, and comparisons to other civilizations, regions, and/or societies. Note that there is a reference to genocide, mass graves, human sacrifices, and more. We always recommend previewing if you are unsure if the content is appropriate.
tag(s): mayans (31), south america (79)
In the Classroom
Students can use Miro, reviewed here to highlight important information that they learned from the podcast. Students can create a timeline using Time Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here. Finally, students can research one highlight of the Mayan civilization in depth and share it using Ourboox, reviewed here or ePubEditor, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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13th Amendment to the Constitution - Library of Congress
Grades
7 to 12
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The Library of Congress guide on the 13th Amendment is an invaluable resource for teachers exploring the history of slavery, emancipation, and the evolution of civil rights in the United...more
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The Library of Congress guide on the 13th Amendment is an invaluable resource for teachers exploring the history of slavery, emancipation, and the evolution of civil rights in the United States. This comprehensive guide provides primary source documents, historical context, and legal insights into the amendment that abolished slavery. Designed for educators, it offers easy access to speeches, legislative records, and images that bring the historical significance of the 13th Amendment to life. Whether you're teaching a civics, history, or government class, this guide equips you with the tools to foster meaningful discussions about freedom, justice, and the enduring impact of this landmark amendment.
tag(s): abolition (14), civics (131), civil rights (224), constitution (104), emancipation proclamation (15), slavery (82)
In the Classroom
Students can use free online tools like Class Tools, reviewed here or Google Slides, reviewed here to create an interactive timeline that tracks the events leading to the passage of the 13th Amendment. They can include key moments such as the Emancipation Proclamation, debates in Congress, and the ratification process. Students work in pairs or small groups to record a short podcast episode discussing the significance of the 13th Amendment and its legacy today. Online tools such as Acast, reviewed here or Spotify for Podcastors, reviewed here can be used. Students can incorporate quotes from historical figures, reflections on modern civil rights issues, and their interpretations of how the amendment has shaped U.S. history. Have students create a Venn diagram comparing the abolition of slavery in the 19th century to modern-day issues surrounding freedom and justice. The Venn diagram can be completed on paper or online using Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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African American Artists: Collection Connection - Library of Congress
Grades
6 to 12
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African American Artists: Resources in the Library of Congress, serves as a comprehensive guide to the vast collections and resources on African American art and artists. It...more
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African American Artists: Resources in the Library of Congress, serves as a comprehensive guide to the vast collections and resources on African American art and artists. It provides an introduction to significant artworks, movements, and figures, offering insights into their historical and cultural contributions. The guide is organized into sections that highlight primary sources, exhibitions, photographs, manuscripts, and reference materials available in the Library's collections. It is a valuable tool for educators, researchers, and students seeking to explore the rich legacy and impact of African American artists.
tag(s): african american (131), art history (109), black history (132), civil rights (224)
In the Classroom
Have students create a short podcast or audio recording using tools like Spotify for Podcastors, reviewed here or Buzzsprout, reviewed here discussing the artist's life, struggles, and contributions to art history. Have students use the Library of Congress website and virtual exhibits to explore and identify a piece of artwork by an African American artist. They can create a short multimedia presentation using Google Slides, reviewed here or Canva, reviewed here analyzing the artist's background, themes, and techniques. Use a free timeline creation tool and assign each student an artist or movement. Use a free timeline creation tool such as Time Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here or Timeline Infographic Templates, reviewed here to research and add to the timeline, including images and brief descriptions.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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6888th Central Postal Directory Battilion - Library of Congress
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7 to 12
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Explore this detailed guide to the history of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female battalion to serve overseas during World War II. It highlights...more
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Explore this detailed guide to the history of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female battalion to serve overseas during World War II. It highlights the battalion's critical role in clearing a massive backlog of mail to boost troop morale and their perseverance in the face of racism, sexism, and challenging conditions. The guide offers access to primary sources, such as photographs, official records, and news articles, along with historical analysis that situates their contributions within the broader context of the war and civil rights. This resource is a valuable tool for educators, featuring side tabs with timelines, related collections, and teaching resources, making it ideal for lessons on women's history, African American history, and military history.
tag(s): black history (132), civil rights (224), women (192), womenchangemaker (83), world war 2 (169)
In the Classroom
Ask students to write letters imagining they are members of the 6888th Battalion, describing their experiences and feelings about their mission. Using a tool like Google Earth, reviewed here students can map the journey of the 6888th Battalion, highlighting key locations like Birmingham, England, and Rouen, France. Include descriptions of the battalion's challenges and accomplishments at each site. Assign students to create a podcast episode or short video using tools like Spotify for Podcastors, reviewed here or Buzzsprout, reviewed here where they tell the story of the battalion's contributions. They can include interviews (real or role-played), primary source excerpts, and reflections on the battalion's legacy.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Monah - Monah
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9 to 12
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Monah offers lessons on the First People, including the Black Kettle and the Washita River Massacre, The Sterilization of Native American Women in Oklahoma, The Tonkawa People: A Retracing...more
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Monah offers lessons on the First People, including the Black Kettle and the Washita River Massacre, The Sterilization of Native American Women in Oklahoma, The Tonkawa People: A Retracing of Steps from Texas to Oklahoma, Choctaw Code Talkers of World War I, Quapaw Nation Food Sovereignty, and Osage Massacres and Gender Roles. Lesson plans include an introduction, materials, learning objectives, slides, quizzes, websites, primary sources, and map activities.
tag(s): 1800s (90), 1900s (87), 1910s (30), 1920s (26), 1930s (40), native americans (155)
In the Classroom
Students can engage in the lessons presented as they are from the site. They can also take a virtual tour of the Museum of Native American History Monah Virtual Tour. Students can also compare two different groups/tribes of Native Americans. 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.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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History Breakout Template - Genially
Grades
6 to 12
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Unlock the keys to history with gamified activities and escape rooms that you can personalize using Genially, reviewed here. Customizable content...more
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Unlock the keys to history with gamified activities and escape rooms that you can personalize using Genially, reviewed here. Customizable content includes options to add audio, video, multimedia, text, and interactive images. Begin by choosing the "Use this template" link to add the thirty-two-slide template to your Genially dashboard. Add information to each slide following the information provided to guide students through four missions. Invite students to join a live presentation using their devices or work together as a class using a live presentation on your whiteboard.
tag(s): digital escapes (29), game based learning (324), gamification (88), mysteries (28)
In the Classroom
Create interactive escape rooms to introduce history lessons, review for upcoming quizzes and tests, or as an engaging homework activity. As you create your history breakout, use Genially's AI features to generate questions, remove image backgrounds, and create images. Find free images to use with your breakout activity by browsing through resources available on TeachersFirst Special Topics Page for Free Image Resources, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Jewish American Heritage Month: A Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide - Library of Congress
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9 to 12
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The "Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide" from the Library of Congress provides a valuable resource for exploring the legal framework and history behind commemorative observances...more
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The "Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide" from the Library of Congress provides a valuable resource for exploring the legal framework and history behind commemorative observances in the United States. It includes information on federal laws, presidential proclamations, and public laws establishing official observances such as holidays, awareness months, and significant anniversaries. The guide offers links to key legal documents, historical context, and research tips, making it an excellent tool for teachers designing lessons on civic education, American history, or government. Its accessible format helps students and educators better understand how national observances are legally and culturally recognized.
In the Classroom
Assign students to investigate how a commemorative observance becomes official, from public advocacy to federal laws or presidential proclamations. They can use examples from the guide, such as the creation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Students can then write a short essay or give a presentation explaining the process. Use the guide's links to access examples of presidential proclamations for national observances. Assign students to analyze one proclamation, examining its language, tone, and purpose. They can summarize its main points and discuss why such proclamations are significant. Challenge students to select and research a lesser-known commemorative observance (ex., National Hispanic Heritage Month or Constitution Day) using the guide. Students can also create these presentations using a resource such as Google Slides, reviewed here or Padlet, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Here's Why These Six Ancient Civilizations Mysteriously Collapsed - History.com
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6 to 12
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The History.com article 6 Civilizations That Mysteriously Collapsed examines the sudden and often unexplained declines of six ancient civilizations: the Maya, Indus Valley, Ancestral...more
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The History.com article 6 Civilizations That Mysteriously Collapsed examines the sudden and often unexplained declines of six ancient civilizations: the Maya, Indus Valley, Ancestral Puebloans, Cahokia, Easter Island, and Greenland's Norse settlements. The article explores contributing factors such as drought, deforestation, resource depletion, social upheaval, and climate change, providing insights into how these societies thrived before facing challenges that led to their downfall. This resource is ideal for educators teaching history, geography, or anthropology, as it encourages students to analyze the interplay between human activity and environmental factors. Teachers can use it to promote critical thinking through discussions, research projects, or comparative studies on the rise and fall of civilizations throughout history.
tag(s): india (33), mayans (31), mexico (68), native americans (155), vikings (11)
In the Classroom
Students can work in teams to design a hypothetical civilization that could thrive while addressing challenges faced by the ancient ones. Teams present their civilization plans as a poster, model, or digital presentation such as Visme, reviewed here or Google Slides, reviewed here. Using an online tool such as Time Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here, students could create a collaborative timeline showing when and how each civilization flourished and eventually declined. Students research a modern society facing similar challenges, including climate change and resource depletion, and compare it to one of the ancient civilizations discussed.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Virtual Tours - FlyOver Zone
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6 to 12
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FlyOver Zone offers free 3D modeling of various world heritage sites and monuments. FlyOver Zone tours visit the Acropolis, Baalbek Reborn temple, Tenochtitlan, Basilica of Maxentius,...more
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FlyOver Zone offers free 3D modeling of various world heritage sites and monuments. FlyOver Zone tours visit the Acropolis, Baalbek Reborn temple, Tenochtitlan, Basilica of Maxentius, Casino (or Villa) Aurora, and many more. You must create a free account to access the 3D reconstructions and the tour itself. Each site and/or monument will give a brief description, and some offer lesson plans.
tag(s): architecture (82), art history (109), virtual field trips (150)
In the Classroom
Have your students do more research on the site or monument that they visited. Students can research the construction and remodeling of the site and/or monument by creating a timeline using Timeline, reviewed here. Another idea, challenge your students to create their 3D model of the site and/or monument.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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The Jerry Cans - Mamaqtuq - Making The Case
Grades
5 to 12
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The YouTube video "The Jerry Cans - Ukiuq" showcases a dynamic folk song performed in Inuktitut, the Indigenous language of the Inuit people. The music video offers a unique opportunity...more
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The YouTube video "The Jerry Cans - Ukiuq" showcases a dynamic folk song performed in Inuktitut, the Indigenous language of the Inuit people. The music video offers a unique opportunity to explore Indigenous culture through its energetic rhythm and expressive storytelling with vibrant visuals. This engaging piece highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous languages and traditions in a modern context. If your district blocks YouTube, then the video may not be viewable.
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tag(s): cultures (297), native americans (155)
In the Classroom
Watch the video without subtitles and encourage students to guess the lyrics based on the visuals and tone of the song. Afterward, replay the video with captions enabled to reveal the actual lyrics, sparking discussions about cultural expressions, language diversity, and the importance of preserving indigenous traditions. Assign small groups to research the Inuit culture, focusing on their traditions, history, or current efforts to preserve their language and way of life. Each group can creatively present their findings, such as a skit or a short essay. After watching the video, have students create a short storyboard using a resource such as MyLens reviewed here or a drawing inspired by the visuals they saw. Ask them to interpret what story the video is telling and how the imagery connects to the song's mood and themes.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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This Photo Isn't What It Looks Like - PBS
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6 to 12
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The website "This Photo Isn't What It Looks Like" is part of the podcast series "The Bigger Picture" from Thirteen.org, which examines the hidden stories behind iconic photos. This...more
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The website "This Photo Isn't What It Looks Like" is part of the podcast series "The Bigger Picture" from Thirteen.org, which examines the hidden stories behind iconic photos. This episode focuses on a photo of ethnographer Frances Densmore and Piegan Blackfeet tribe leader Mountain Chief. Through podcasts and storytelling, it encourages students to think critically about the meaning behind images and how they shape our understanding of history. It's a powerful resource for teaching media literacy and sparking thoughtful classroom discussions.
tag(s): media literacy (133), native americans (155), photography (136)
In the Classroom
Show the photo of Frances Densmore and Mountain Chief. Discuss the assumption that the picture represents a "dying culture." Then ask students to write captions for the photo that reflect the spirit of Native American culture today. Assign students to research modern Blackfeet cultural practices using the video and additional sources. Create a class presentation showcasing art, music, language revitalization, or other aspects of Blackfeet life today. They can use Visme, reviewed here or Google Slides, reviewed here to present their findings. Students can create visual or written works inspired by what they learned about Mountain Chief and contemporary Blackfeet culture.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Whose Land Lesson Plans - BOLD Realities
Grades
2 to 12
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The Whose Land website offers interactive tools and lesson plans to help students learn about Indigenous territories and the history of land ownership in North America. The platform...more
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The Whose Land website offers interactive tools and lesson plans to help students learn about Indigenous territories and the history of land ownership in North America. The platform includes resources like videos, maps, and guided activities encouraging students to explore whose land they live on and the importance of Indigenous sovereignty. The lesson plans are suitable for various grade levels and promote critical thinking about historical and contemporary issues related to Indigenous peoples and land rights. These materials are designed to foster respect for Indigenous cultures and awareness of ongoing settlement efforts. It's recommended to check if YouTube is accessible on school networks if you are planning to use these resources in the classroom.
tag(s): columbus day (6), native americans (155)
In the Classroom
After exploring the website, guide students in writing their land acknowledgment. They can reflect on what they learned about the land and its original stewards. Have students create a timeline of significant events in their region's history of Indigenous land rights. Students can accomplish this project using printed materials from the website, or create a digital timeline using Time Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here. Have students use the Whose Land interactive map to identify the Indigenous territories, treaties, and languages of their local area. Follow up with a class discussion or short presentation on their findings.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Indigenous Peoples' Day Resources - Zinn Education Project
Grades
6 to 12
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The Indigenous Peoples' Day Resources webpage from the Zinn Education Project provides resources to challenge traditional narratives of Columbus Day by centering the history and resilience...more
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The Indigenous Peoples' Day Resources webpage from the Zinn Education Project provides resources to challenge traditional narratives of Columbus Day by centering the history and resilience of Indigenous peoples. It offers lesson plans, articles, and book recommendations aimed at creating a deeper understanding of the colonial impact on Native communities and celebrating Indigenous cultures and histories. These materials are designed to help educators engage students with Indigenous peoples' historical and ongoing struggles, encouraging a more inclusive and accurate view of history. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): columbus day (6), native americans (155)
In the Classroom
Students can create posters, poems, or videos celebrating Indigenous cultures and contributions. Use a tool such as Canva Edu, reviewed here. They might research Indigenous art, music, or traditions and present their findings creatively. Use a lesson plan where students take on roles of Indigenous people, European settlers, or other historical figures to explore the impact of colonization. Role-playing encourages empathy and helps students understand multiple perspectives. Have students research local Indigenous history, such as tribes native to their area, and create a presentation or written report. The presentation can be completed digitally using Google Slides, reviewed here or Visme, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Internet Archive - Brewster Kahle
Grades
3 to 12
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Internet Archive is a massive digital library offering free access to millions of books, movies, music, websites, and more. Use this resource to find historical documents, classic literature,...more
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Internet Archive is a massive digital library offering free access to millions of books, movies, music, websites, and more. Use this resource to find historical documents, classic literature, educational videos, and archived websites to support lessons in almost any subject. The "Wayback Machine" is especially useful for exploring the history of websites, while the extensive eBook and audio collections can enhance reading assignments. Internet Archive is a great tool for expanding classroom materials and encouraging independent research or exploration.
tag(s): audio books (42), digital storytelling (181), ebooks (49), literature (215), media literacy (133), movies (51)
In the Classroom
Make a digital scavenger hunt by creating a list of questions or tasks that require students to search for answers using the Internet Archive, such as finding a historical document or an old movie clip. Encourage students to find supplementary materials, like old videos, music, or texts, to add depth to a research project or presentation on a historical or cultural topic. Use the Wayback Machine to explore how a popular website looked at different points in history. Discuss how technology and design have changed over time. Assign students to locate and analyze primary source documents, such as speeches, newspapers, or historical books, to support history or social studies lessons.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Friends of Gillette Castle State Park - The Gillette Castle Friends
Grades
4 to 12
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The Gillette Castle Friends website's photo and video gallery offers an engaging glimpse into the unique architecture and history of Gillette Castle, built by the actor William Gillette....more
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The Gillette Castle Friends website's photo and video gallery offers an engaging glimpse into the unique architecture and history of Gillette Castle, built by the actor William Gillette. Teachers can use this resource to visually introduce students to historic architecture, highlighting features like medieval-style design, quirky details, and scenic surroundings. It serves as an engaging tool for discussions on historical preservation, architectural styles, or regional history. The photos and videos allow students to explore the castle's intricate craftsmanship and design, making history more tangible and accessible. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.
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This site includes advertising.
tag(s): architecture (82), connecticut (3), medieval (36), virtual field trips (150)
In the Classroom
After viewing the gallery, students can create their own "castle" design inspired by Gillette Castle. They can draw floor plans, include unique features like secret passages or quirky rooms, and present their designs to the class, explaining how the original structure inspired them. Students can analyze the unique architectural details shown in the gallery and research why certain design elements (Ex. medieval motifs, custom locks, stonework) were popular or unusual at the time. Inspired by Gillette Castle's mysterious atmosphere, students can write a short story set in the castle, perhaps incorporating its unique features, like hidden rooms or secret staircases, as plot elements. Students could write (and share) their short stories using Google Slides, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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