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Race Relations in the 1930s and 1940s - Library of Congress
Grades
6 to 12
The Library of Congress website on Race Relations in the 1930s and 1940s offers a curated collection of primary sources that help students explore the complex realities of race in ...more
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The Library of Congress website on Race Relations in the 1930s and 1940s offers a curated collection of primary sources that help students explore the complex realities of race in America during the Great Depression and World War II. This section features photographs, documents, and newspaper articles that reflects the experiences of African Americans and other marginalized communities including segregation, labor struggles, military service, and daily life. Designed for classroom use, these materials support historical inquiry and critical thinking, making them ideal for middle and high school U.S. history or social studies lessons.
tag(s): african american (123), black history (138), civil rights (221), segregation (20)
In the Classroom
Have students select a photograph or document from the collection and complete a primary source analysis worksheet, focusing on context, audience, message, and historical significance. Using the primary sources, have students design a 1930s or 1940s-style newspaper front page reporting using templates on Canva Edu, reviewed here on an event or issue related to race relations, incorporating headlines, images, and articles. Ask students to write a fictional first-person account (as a soldier, worker, or community member) based on evidence from the sources, giving voice to underrepresented perspectives of the time.Uncovering Loyalties - iCivics Inc.
Grades
K to 8Uncovering Loyalties is an engaging iCivics role-play game set in Williamsburg, Virginia in 1774. Students explore the town, interact with young people from different backgrounds, and...more
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Uncovering Loyalties is an engaging iCivics role-play game set in Williamsburg, Virginia in 1774. Students explore the town, interact with young people from different backgrounds, and walk in their shoes as Loyalists or Patriots. Throughout gameplay, students learn to explain connections in historical contexts; explore why individuals and groups held differing perspectives during the same period, and apply critical-thinking skills to organize and use information acquired from a variety of sources. The game also helps students understand how political, religious, and economic ideas and interests led to the American Revolutionary War. Teachers can enhance the experience using a free Extension Pack, complete with a lesson plan, student handouts, and Google Slides available from the iCivics "Teach" section.
tag(s): american revolution (86), game based learning (208), williamsburg (8)
In the Classroom
Using chart paper or a digital tool like Padlet reviewed here or Canva reviewed here, have students create a visual map showing how political, religious, and economic ideas and events led to the American Revolution. Ask students to research whether there were Loyalists or Patriots in their own state or region during the Revolutionary War. They can present their findings in a poster using DesignCap Poster Creator reviewed here, a slide show using Google Slides reviewed here, or a brief documentary-style video using Adobe Express Video Maker reviewed here to connect national events to local history. Provide students with quotes, images, and short passages from primary sources and have them sort the evidence into categories that reflect political, religious, and economic motivations for either loyalty or rebellion. Then, students use evidence to explain differing colonial perspectives.Virtual Museum Tour - Museum of the American Revolution
Grades
4 to 12The Museum of the American Revolution's Virtual Museum Tour offers an immersive online experience featuring 360-degree panoramic views of its galleries, high-resolution images of artifacts,...more
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The Museum of the American Revolution's Virtual Museum Tour offers an immersive online experience featuring 360-degree panoramic views of its galleries, high-resolution images of artifacts, and optional guided audio narration. The tour is divided into themed sections, such as the Liberty Tree, Washington's Field Headquarters, and various exhibits that highlight diverse voices, including those of women, Native Americans, and both free and enslaved people. Students can explore detailed scenes and stories that trace the journey from the start of the Revolution to the founding of a new nation. However, since the tour includes embedded YouTube videos, any school district that blocks YouTube will prevent access to those video components.
tag(s): american revolution (86), virtual field trips (132)
In the Classroom
Create a scavenger hunt where students search the virtual museum for key artifacts, symbols (like the Liberty Tree), or quotes. Students can work in pairs to answer guiding questions tied to historical themes. After exploring a section of the museum, have students write journal entries from the point of view of a historical figure they encountered, such as a soldier, a Loyalist, a woman in wartime, or an enslaved person seeking freedom. Students can design their own mini "virtual exhibit" using images, text, and narration to showcase what they believe are the most important parts of the American Revolution, inspired by the museum's layout. This can be done using tools like Google Slides reviewed here or Canva Edu reviewed here.Freedman's Bureau and Education: Teaching With Primary Resources - PBS LearningMedia
Grades
6 to 12The Freedmen's Bureau and Education explores the impact of the Freedmen's Bureau in establishing schools for formerly enslaved individuals after the Civil War. Through historical context...more
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The Freedmen's Bureau and Education explores the impact of the Freedmen's Bureau in establishing schools for formerly enslaved individuals after the Civil War. Through historical context and primary source analysis, this resource helps students understand the challenges and successes of early efforts to provide education to African Americans. Teachers can use this material to spark discussions about equity in education, Reconstruction-era policies, and the lasting effects of these initiatives. This resource is ideal for social studies or history lessons on Reconstruction and civil rights.
tag(s): african american (123), civil war (142), primary sources (119), slavery (80)
In the Classroom
Provide students with letters, reports, or newspaper articles from the Freedmen's Bureau about education efforts. Have them work in groups to analyze the documents and answer questions such as: What challenges did freed people face in accessing education?, How did the Freedmen's Bureau support education?, and What biases or perspectives are present in the sources?. Students can investigate the history of African American education in their community or state. Have students present their findings in a timeline using Timeline Infographic Templates reviewed here or Timeline reviewed here and include if there were Freedman's Bureau schools in their area, and what historical events impacted education access. Have students research and compare education barriers during Reconstruction with modern challenges, including segregation or a lack of resources in underserved schools, and present the information in an infographic using Canva Infographic Creator, reviewed here.Native Americans' Contributions to American Culture - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12Native Americans, the indigenous peoples of North America, have had a huge impact on the fabric of American culture, shaping the nation's identity in countless ways. This comprehensive...more
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Native Americans, the indigenous peoples of North America, have had a huge impact on the fabric of American culture, shaping the nation's identity in countless ways. This comprehensive collection of resources offers a deep dive into the indigenous peoples' influence on the United States, spanning from pre-colonial times to the present day. From agricultural innovations and environmental stewardship to art, language, and political thought, these materials highlight the diverse and significant impacts of hundreds of distinct tribal nations. This curation includes a selection of historical documents, oral traditions, archaeological findings, and more in the fields of medicine, military service, literature, music, and cuisine. It serves as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and ongoing importance of Native peoples in shaping American culture and identity.
tag(s): native americans (116)
In the Classroom
Explore this collection featuring the fascinating impact of Native Americans. Look at each resource's "Classroom Use" section for creative ideas on weaving these materials into your lessons.Hispanic Americans' Contributions to American Culture - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12This collection of resources celebrates the many contributions of Hispanic Americans to American culture. From literature and art to music and cuisine, Hispanic Americans have played...more
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This collection of resources celebrates the many contributions of Hispanic Americans to American culture. From literature and art to music and cuisine, Hispanic Americans have played an integral role in shaping the nation's identity, infusing it with vibrant traditions and innovative perspectives. Through historical narratives, educational materials, and multimedia content, this compilation aims to illuminate the diverse voices and experiences that have influenced everything from the civil rights movement to contemporary pop culture. By exploring these resources, we honor the past and recognize the ongoing impact of Hispanic Americans in crafting a more inclusive and dynamic society.
tag(s): hispanic (46)
In the Classroom
Help your students learn more about the countless contributions of Hispanic Americans. This list includes resources for all grades. Read each resource's Classroom Use section to learn ways to incorporate the information in your lessonsUnveiling Hidden Stars: remarkable Latino contributions in the history of the United States - UnidosUS
Grades
4 to 12Read about the significant underrepresentation of Latino achievements in U.S. history education. A joint study by UnidosUS and Johns Hopkins University revealed that only 13% of essential...more
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Read about the significant underrepresentation of Latino achievements in U.S. history education. A joint study by UnidosUS and Johns Hopkins University revealed that only 13% of essential topics related to the Latino experience are adequately covered in current textbooks. The article emphasizes the importance of integrating Latino narratives into the broader American story to provide a more accurate and inclusive historical perspective. It highlights notable figures such as Juan Garrido, the first documented Black person in North America, and Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to explore the West Coast. Educators are encouraged to incorporate these contributions into their curricula to enrich students' understanding of the nation's diverse heritage.
tag(s): hispanic (46)
In the Classroom
Create cards with the names of lesser-known Latino figures on one set and their contributions on another. Students can work in pairs or small groups to match them correctly. As a class or in small groups, have students build a visual timeline featuring the historical events and figures mentioned in the article. Use Sutori, reviewed here or Time Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here and include images, dates, and impact statements. Students can review their current history textbook's index or chapters to see how (or if) Latino contributions are represented. They can compare it to information from the UnidosUS article.American Experience: Native Americans - PBS LearningMedia
Grades
6 to 12The American Experience: Native Peoples collection on PBS LearningMedia provides educators with a curated selection of documentaries and resources that delve into the histories, cultures,...more
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The American Experience: Native Peoples collection on PBS LearningMedia provides educators with a curated selection of documentaries and resources that delve into the histories, cultures, and experiences of Indigenous communities in the United States. Topics covered include the forced relocations such as the Trail of Tears, the impact of government-run boarding schools on Indigenous children, Native American involvement in the Civil War, and the American Indian Movement's role in events like the Wounded Knee occupation. These materials offer valuable insights to enhance classroom discussions and promote a deeper understanding of Native American histories and contemporary issues.
tag(s): civil war (142), native americans (116)
In the Classroom
After exploring topics like the Trail of Tears or Native American boarding schools, have students create a timeline using Timeline, reviewed here or Timelinely, reviewed here that includes both historical events and modern Indigenous rights movements or cultural revivals. After viewing a clip on government-run boarding schools, students can write a fictionalized journal entry from the perspective of an Indigenous child attending one of these schools, using historical details to guide their writing. Using inspiration from the We Shall Remain series, instruct students to create a digital collage using PhotoCollage, reviewed here or short video using Animoto reviewed here.9 Resources for Teaching About Hispanic Heritage - International Society for Technology in Education
Grades
3 to 8The ISTE blog post "9 Resources for Teaching About Hispanic Heritage" offers a curated list of engaging digital tools and platforms to help educators meaningfully incorporate Hispanic...more
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The ISTE blog post "9 Resources for Teaching About Hispanic Heritage" offers a curated list of engaging digital tools and platforms to help educators meaningfully incorporate Hispanic Heritage Month into their classrooms. Each resource highlights the contributions, culture, and history of Hispanic and Latino communities through interactive activities, videos, virtual exhibits, and lesson plans. The article emphasizes culturally responsive teaching and provides teachers with practical ideas to foster inclusivity and deeper student understanding.
In the Classroom
Students can explore the Latino Culture in the U.S. exhibit on Google Arts & Culture. In small groups, have students select one artwork or artifact and then share what they learned with the class in a mini "gallery talk." Using tools like Google Slides, reviewed here or Canva, reviewed here, students can create a digital story map that highlights the life and achievements of a notable Hispanic or Latino figure. Include images, quotes, and key facts. After exploring resources like the Smithsonian Learning Lab, students can create a collage (digital using Photo Joiner, reviewed here or physical) that represents elements of Hispanic culture--such as food, festivals, music, and language--along with brief descriptions.Hispanic Heritage Month for Kids - KidsKonnect
Grades
3 to 7This educational video from KidsKonnect provides an engaging overview of Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighting its origins, significance, and the rich contributions of Hispanic and...more
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This educational video from KidsKonnect provides an engaging overview of Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighting its origins, significance, and the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to U.S. culture and history. The video explains why the celebration runs from September 15 to October 15, ties it to Latin American independence days, and features notable figures like Sonia Sotomayor, Cesar Chavez, Rita Moreno, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. It is geared toward elementary and middle school learners. It also explores themes such as cultural identity, immigration, and community values, all while incorporating fun trivia--like a spotlight on Dora the Explorer as a cultural icon. If your district blocks YouTube, then the video may not be viewable.
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tag(s): cultures (226), famous people (28), hispanic (46)
In the Classroom
In small groups, students create a visual collage (paper or digital using PhotoCollage reviewed here) of Hispanic and Latino foods, music, holidays, and famous figures from the video. Students select a Hispanic or Latino figure from the video and, using an "I Am" poem format, write in that person's voice, sharing their background, dreams, and impact. Before watching, introduce 3-5 trivia questions based on the video (ex., "Which cartoon character teaches Spanish while adventuring?"). Students answer as they watch, then discuss in pairs or small groups afterward.Influential Hispanic Americans - Biography.com
Grades
4 to 12The Biography.com feature "23 Influential Hispanic Americans Who Have Made History" offers an engaging overview of prominent Hispanic figures whose achievements have significantly impacted...more
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The Biography.com feature "23 Influential Hispanic Americans Who Have Made History" offers an engaging overview of prominent Hispanic figures whose achievements have significantly impacted American society. The article highlights individuals across various fields, including politics, arts, science, and activism. Notable figures include Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic American on the U.S. Supreme Court; labor leader Cesar Chavez, who co-founded the United Farm Workers; and EGOT-winning performer Rita Moreno. This resource serves as an excellent tool for educators aiming to introduce students to the diverse contributions of Hispanic Americans.
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tag(s): famous people (28), hispanic (46)
In the Classroom
Create a list of fun facts (ex., "Find someone who won an Olympic medal" or "Find a person who was a Supreme Court Justice") and have students search the article to match each clue with the correct person. Choose two individuals from different fields, such as music vs. science, and have students complete a Venn diagram. The Venn diagram can be done on paper or online using Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here. Students write an imaginary interview with a historical figure from the article. Have students create a list of five thoughtful questions and what the person might say in response.Facts about US Latinos - Pew Research Center
Grades
6 to 12Explore up-to-date demographic insights into the Latino population in the United States. When this resource was created, Latinos accounted for 19% of the U.S. population, totaling 63.6...more
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Explore up-to-date demographic insights into the Latino population in the United States. When this resource was created, Latinos accounted for 19% of the U.S. population, totaling 63.6 million people, and were responsible for 53% of the nation's population growth since 2010. The article highlights the diversity within the Latino community, noting that individuals of Mexican origin make up nearly 60% of the U.S. Latino population, followed by Puerto Ricans, Salvadorans, Cubans, Dominicans, Guatemalans, Colombians, and Hondurans. Additionally, it discusses the significant increase in multiracial identification among Latinos, with more than 27 million identifying with more than one race in 2022, up from 3 million in 2010. These findings offer valuable context for educators aiming to incorporate comprehensive and current information about Latino communities into their curricula.
tag(s): cultures (226), hispanic (46), population (51)
In the Classroom
Post key statistics from the article around the classroom. Students can rotate in pairs or small groups, reading and discussing each fact. Use prompts like "What surprises you?" or "Why might this be important?" Students write a short argumentative essay using statistics from the article to support a claim such as "Latino contributions are essential to the future of the U.S.". Using the article's breakdown of Latino origins (ex., Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban), students create a U.S. map showing where different Latino populations are most concentrated. Consider completing the map online using Google My Maps, reviewed here.Celebrating the Culture and Contributions of Hispanic Americans - U.S. Department of Commerce
Grades
5 to 12The U.S. Department of Commerce's Celebrating the Culture and Contributions of Hispanic Americans is a short article that highlights Hispanic culture in the United States and shares...more
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The U.S. Department of Commerce's Celebrating the Culture and Contributions of Hispanic Americans is a short article that highlights Hispanic culture in the United States and shares several Did You Know facts.
In the Classroom
Students can continue to investigate the contributions of Hispanics in the United States. Students can interview a Hispanic worker and/or business owner. Students can use Padlet, reviewed here to post questions or comments after reading the article.Mustard and Moxie's 10 Reasons Why Hispanics Are Important to the US - Mustard and Moxie's 10 Reasons Why Hispanics Are Important to t
Grades
6 to 12Mustard and Moxie's 10 Reasons Why Hispanics Are Important to the US is part of a blog. The reasons why Hispanics are important include diversity and cultural enrichment, economic contributions,...more
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Mustard and Moxie's 10 Reasons Why Hispanics Are Important to the US is part of a blog. The reasons why Hispanics are important include diversity and cultural enrichment, economic contributions, demographic influence, educational achievements, and more.
tag(s): cultures (226), demographics (14), hispanic (46)
In the Classroom
Students can use Podbean, reviewed here to share the political achievements that Hispanics have made in the United States. Students can use Padlet, reviewed here to share the economic impact of Hispanics. Students can use Kiddle, reviewed here, to research more information.9 National Hispanic Heritage Month Activities for Students - Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Grades
3 to 12Check out this curated collection of engaging activities designed to honor and explore Hispanic Americans' contributions and culture. Find a variety of lesson ideas suitable for different...more
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Check out this curated collection of engaging activities designed to honor and explore Hispanic Americans' contributions and culture. Find a variety of lesson ideas suitable for different grade levels, such as student-led research projects on influential Hispanic figures, cultural celebrations featuring traditional music and dance, and creative writing assignments inspired by Hispanic literature. These activities aim to foster cultural awareness and appreciation, providing teachers with practical tools to integrate Hispanic Heritage Month into their curriculum effectively
tag(s): art history (107), creative writing (125), cultures (226), hispanic (46)
In the Classroom
Students can use MyLens reviewed here to create a timeline of events leading up to the Grape Strike and boycott. Introduce students to traditional Hispanic music genres like salsa, mariachi, or reggaeton. Follow with a discussion or simple dance session to explore how music reflects cultural identity. Read a poem or story by a Hispanic author (e.g., Gary Soto or Sandra Cisneros), then have students write a short piece inspired by the themes, style, or setting of the work.Jewish Americans' Contributions to American Culture - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12The tapestry of American culture is richly woven with the contributions of Jewish Americans, a narrative that spans the breadth of the nation's history. From the earliest days of independence,...more
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The tapestry of American culture is richly woven with the contributions of Jewish Americans, a narrative that spans the breadth of the nation's history. From the earliest days of independence, Jewish citizens have played a pivotal yet often unrecognized role in shaping the United States, infusing the American ethos with a spirit of innovation, resilience, and a profound commitment to community. This collection of resources explores the influence of Jewish Americans and their impact on everything from the arts and sciences to politics and social reform. It celebrates the indelible imprint of Jewish intellectual, artistic, and ethical contributions to the American landscape.
In the Classroom
Share these resources with your students to learn about Jewish Americans' contributions. Share a link to this collection on your school web page and in your school newsletter (or email). Find resources to incorporate into your lessons.I Am Story: Spotlighting Asian American Creatives in Entertainment - CAPE (Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment)
Grades
4 to 12This storytelling project highlights the experiences and voices of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) individuals in media, entertainment, and beyond. This resource provides...more
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This storytelling project highlights the experiences and voices of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) individuals in media, entertainment, and beyond. This resource provides powerful personal narratives, video interviews, and educational materials to help students explore identity, representation, and resilience themes. Teachers can use these stories to foster discussions on diversity, inclusion, and the impact of storytelling in shaping cultural awareness. This resource is particularly valuable for middle and high school students studying media, literature, or social studies. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.
tag(s): acting (21), asia (136), composers (20), cultures (226), diversity (46), famous people (28), identity (37), sports (85), stories and storytelling (63)
In the Classroom
Inspired by the 'I Am Story', have students work in small groups to create a short podcast with Anchor reviewed here or a video using Adobe Express Video Maker reviewed here where they can share personal or family stories about identity and culture. Students can create a physical or digital collage with PhotoCollage reviewed here or Photo Joiner reviewed here that represents key themes from the 'I Am Story', using images, quotes, and symbols to express ideas about identity, resilience, and cultural pride. After watching or reading a story from 'I Am Story', students can reflect on their own cultural or personal experiences and write a short narrative about their identity, challenges, or achievements. Students can then research an AAPI figure in entertainment, activism, or history. They can create an imaginary interview where they write both the questions and responses based on their research, simulating a conversation about representation and challenges.Dear Asian Americans - Jerry Won
Grades
7 to 12This podcast features heartfelt conversations with Asian American leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members about identity, heritage, and personal experiences. The podcast host...more
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This podcast features heartfelt conversations with Asian American leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members about identity, heritage, and personal experiences. The podcast host explores immigration, family expectations, career journeys, and social justice through discussions with guests from diverse backgrounds and career paths. Teachers can use episodes to introduce students to diverse Asian American voices, foster discussions on identity and belonging, and encourage personal storytelling. This resource is ideal for middle and high school students studying cultural identity, history, or social issues.
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tag(s): asia (136), careers (183), identity (37), immigrants (48), immigration (84), oral history (14), podcasts (118), stories and storytelling (63)
In the Classroom
Students can listen to a selected episode and participate in a panel-style discussion, sharing their thoughts on key themes. Assign different roles (moderator, speakers, audience) to encourage critical thinking and public speaking skills. Have students write a letter to their future selves about what they've learned from the podcast regarding identity, heritage, or perseverance. They can include personal goals, reflections, or ways they hope to embrace their own cultural background. Inspired by the podcast's storytelling format, have students interview a family member, friend, or community member about their cultural background, experiences, and challenges. They can present their findings through a written piece or video using moovly, reviewed here or Animoto, reviewed here. Students can then research an influential Asian American leader, activist, or artist discussed in the podcast. They can create a presentation using Google Slides reviewed here, or a poster using Canva Infographic Creator, reviewed here highlighting the person's impact on society.Oh Pioneers! Interactive Westward Expansion Game - Mr. Nussbaum Learning and Fun
Grades
3 to 7Oh, Pioneers! Can You Make It on the California Trail? on Mr. Nussbaum's site is an interactive simulation that immerses students in the challenges faced by pioneers traveling westward...more
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Oh, Pioneers! Can You Make It on the California Trail? on Mr. Nussbaum's site is an interactive simulation that immerses students in the challenges faced by pioneers traveling westward in the 1800s. Players make critical decisions about supplies, routes, and survival strategies while learning about historical events, geography, and the hardships of frontier life. This engaging game fosters problem-solving and critical thinking skills, making it a great tool for social studies lessons on westward expansion. Teachers can use it to start discussions, reinforce historical concepts, and encourage students to analyze cause-and-effect relationships interactively.
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tag(s): gold rush (17), simulations (26), westward expansion (40)
In the Classroom
Before playing the game, have students work in small groups to create a packing list for their journey west. They must choose a limited number of items (ex., food, tools, clothing, medicine) and justify their choices. After playing the game, they can reflect on whether their selections would have helped them succeed. Provide students with real pioneer diary entries, letters, or photographs. Have them compare these firsthand accounts to their game experience, identifying similarities and differences in challenges, decisions, and daily life. Have students trace the California Trail in Google My Maps, reviewed here. They can mark key landmarks, rivers, and danger zones they encountered in the game. Then, discuss how geography influenced travel decisions and survival rates.Asian Americans in the People's History of the United States - Zinn Education Project
Grades
6 to 12Take advantage of the twenty profiles found on this site to learn about Asian American activism, resistance, and contributions to social justice movements. Through primary sources,...more
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Take advantage of the twenty profiles found on this site to learn about Asian American activism, resistance, and contributions to social justice movements. Through primary sources, lesson plans, and storytelling, this collection challenges traditional narratives by centering Asian Americans' roles in labor rights, immigration struggles, and civil rights. Teachers can use these materials to foster critical discussions, connect history to present-day issues, and encourage students to analyze history from diverse perspectives. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): civil rights (221), composers (20), immigration (84), japanese (54), newspapers (94), perspective (20), stories and storytelling (63), women (154), womenchangemaker (39), world war 2 (163)