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Native Americans' Contributions to American Culture - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12
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...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 This curation includes a selection of historical documents, oral traditions, archaeological findings, and more in the fields of medicine, military service, literature, music, and cuisine.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.Hispanic Heritage Month - National Archives
Grades
3 to 6The National Archives' Hispanic Heritage Month page offers educators a rich collection of primary sources and historical records to celebrate and explore the contributions of Hispanic...more
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The National Archives' Hispanic Heritage Month page offers educators a rich collection of primary sources and historical records to celebrate and explore the contributions of Hispanic Americans. The site features documents, photographs, and exhibits highlighting influential figures such as Justice Sonia Sotomayor, labor leaders Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, and astronaut Ellen Ochoa. Educators can access materials on immigration, civil rights, and cultural achievements, providing students with authentic insights into Hispanic and Latino experiences in U.S. history.
tag(s): civil rights (219), cultures (226), hispanic (46), immigrants (48)
In the Classroom
Introduce students to influential Hispanic Americans featured on the site (ex., Cesar Chavez, Sonia Sotomayor, Dolores Huerta). Read short biographical clues aloud while students guess who is described. Then, show a related photo or document from the Archives. Using images and brief descriptions from the site, students can create a timeline highlighting key moments and contributions of Hispanic Americans in U.S. history. Do this with chart paper, index cards, or a digital tool like Sutori, reviewed here or Timeline, reviewed here. Give students an age-appropriate primary source (photo, letter, or poster). In small groups, they can act as "document detectives" to answer guided questions about who created it, why, and what it tells us about Hispanic heritage.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.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 (108), creative writing (126), 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.Asian Americans' Contributions to American Culture - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12Asian Americans have played a vital and often underrecognized role in shaping the cultural landscape of the United States. This diverse collection of resources shares the many contributions...more
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Asian Americans have played a vital and often underrecognized role in shaping the cultural landscape of the United States. This diverse collection of resources shares the many contributions of Asian Americans across various fields, from arts and literature to science and technology, spanning more than 150 years of American history. Read about the impact of many Asian Americans with your students. From the Chinese immigrants who helped build the Transcontinental Railroad to modern-day innovators in Silicon Valley, from the Japanese American soldiers who fought valiantly in World War II to pioneering Asian American scientists and educators, these curated materials showcase the profound impact of Asian Americans on the nation's social, economic, and cultural fabric.
tag(s): asia (136)
In the Classroom
Dive into this collection featuring the fascinating impact of Asian-Americans. Look at each resource's "Classroom Use" section for creative ideas on weaving these materials into your lessons.Last Minute Father's Day Activities - Newsela
Grades
4 to 12Looking for meaningful and standards-aligned ways to celebrate Father's Day in the classroom? Newsela's "Last Minute Father's Day Activities for Students" blog offers interdisciplinary...more
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Looking for meaningful and standards-aligned ways to celebrate Father's Day in the classroom? Newsela's "Last Minute Father's Day Activities for Students" blog offers interdisciplinary lessons that honor father figures while reinforcing key academic skills. From analyzing character traits in the Russian folktale Father Frost to exploring the history of Father's Day and crafting a DIY toolbox through a STEAM challenge, these activities integrate reading, writing, social studies, and science. With real-world relevance and inclusive perspectives, the site helps teachers create engaging, thought-provoking experiences that go beyond traditional crafts.
tag(s): crafts (76), fathers day (17)
In the Classroom
Have students read the Russian folktale Father Frost on Newsela, then identify key character traits of the father figures in the story. Assign two Newsela articles--one on the history of Father's Day and another featuring a personal story or modern reflection on fatherhood. Students can complete a digital Venn diagram using Canva's Venn Diagram Creator reviewed here. After reading texts on Newsela related to appreciation or gratitude, students can write and record short video thank-you messages for a father or father figure using Adobe Express Video Maker reviewed here.Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Booklist - Social Justice Books
Grades
K to 12This extensive book list shares titles of recommended books that feature Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander themes and characters. Explore the list by age group titles,...more
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This extensive book list shares titles of recommended books that feature Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander themes and characters. Explore the list by age group titles, including elementary, middle school, young adult, and adult. Books with an asterisk include a link to detailed reviews. In addition to book recommendations, there is also a link to books the authors do not recommend.
tag(s): asia (136), book lists (168), cross cultural understanding (178), cultures (226), preK (289)
In the Classroom
Bookmark and save this list to find titles to add to your classroom library to support diversity or feature Asian American themes during your lessons. Assign different books to small groups and have students explore themes like identity, family, immigration, or belonging. Include guiding questions to foster discussion. Use an AI resource like MagicSchool reviewed here or QuestionWell reviewed here to create a series of guiding questions for each group. Have students prepare and share book talks to summarize and share their reactions to books they read. Share examples of book talks on WHYY I Like This Book reviewed here with students as part of your lessons on what makes a good book talk and presentation.Asian Americans - Interactive Gallery - PBS
Grades
3 to 12Who were the Tape family, and what were their contributions to American society? How did Vaishno Das Bagai become known as a man without a country? Learn about these stories ...more
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Who were the Tape family, and what were their contributions to American society? How did Vaishno Das Bagai become known as a man without a country? Learn about these stories of Asian-Americans and others through an interactive gallery of flip cards based on the PBS series, Asian Americans. Each flip card links to the episode that includes their story. In addition to the interactive gallery, links on this site include over thirty lesson plans based on the five-part series and additional videos supporting the documentary series.
tag(s): asia (136), bias (28), china (83), cross cultural understanding (178), cultures (226), japan (64), korea (22), racism (83)
In the Classroom
Share this interactive activity with students to explore as part of your Asian-American studies. Use a whiteboard sharing tool such as Whiteboard.chat reviewed here to create an interactive area for students to share and collaborate on ideas about information in the gallery. Ask students to add other Asian American stories to your whiteboard, then use Flippity reviewed here to create a set of interactive flashcards that include images, videos, links, and text. As an extension activity, have groups of students create podcasts using Adobe Podcast reviewed here about Asian Americans and their contributions to American history.
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Wing Luke Museum - Online Classroom
Grades
K to 3Celebrate the rich tapestry of New Year traditions with the Wing Luke Museum's "New Years All Round" curriculum--a vibrant resource designed to bring multicultural learning into K-3...more
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Celebrate the rich tapestry of New Year traditions with the Wing Luke Museum's "New Years All Round" curriculum--a vibrant resource designed to bring multicultural learning into K-3 classrooms. This engaging program offers downloadable activity packets that delve into New Year celebrations from various Asian and Pacific Islander communities, including Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, Lao, Hmong, and Khmer cultures. Each packet features first-person stories, oral histories, folk tales, recipes, crafts, and dance activities, providing students with a hands-on exploration of cultural heritage.
tag(s): asia (136)
In the Classroom
Students can use Google Drawings reviewed here to compare and contrast New Year's worldwide. Students can use Class Tools reviewed here to create cause and effect maps. Finally, students can use Padlet reviewed here to post thoughts and questions.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.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 (23), 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.Use, Understand & Engage: A Digital Media Literacy Framework for Canadian Schools - MediaSmarts
Grades
K to 12"Use, Understand & Engage: A Digital Media Literacy Framework for Canadian Schools" is a comprehensive guide designed to help educators teach critical thinking, digital citizenship,...more
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"Use, Understand & Engage: A Digital Media Literacy Framework for Canadian Schools" is a comprehensive guide designed to help educators teach critical thinking, digital citizenship, and media literacy in today's technology-driven world. The framework focuses on three key areas: "Use" (developing technical skills for digital tools), "Understand" (analyzing and evaluating digital content), and "Engage" (responsible and ethical participation in digital spaces). It provides lesson ideas, discussion prompts, and assessment tools to help students navigate online information, recognize misinformation, and become responsible digital citizens. This resource is ideal for integrating media literacy into various subject areas across K-12 classrooms.
tag(s): critical thinking (137), digital citizenship (93), digital literacy (16), media literacy (113)
In the Classroom
Students can analyze online news articles, images, or social media posts and determine if they are real or fake. In groups, students can brainstorm responsible online behaviors and create a classroom "Digital Citizenship Agreement." Show students different online ads, influencer sponsorships, or product placements and have them analyze how advertising techniques, persuasive language, and media bias influence consumer behavior. Students can create a PSA podcast using Spotify for Podcasters (formerly Anchor) reviewed here or video using Adobe Express Video Maker reviewed here on topics like online safety, media bias, misinformation, or ethical social media use.
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Asian American History 101 - Gen and Ted Lai
Grades
4 to 12The Asian American History 101 podcast provides educators with insightful discussions on the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Americans. Covering topics such as immigration,...more
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The Asian American History 101 podcast provides educators with insightful discussions on the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Americans. Covering topics such as immigration, activism, historical events, and representation in media, the podcast offers an engaging way to incorporate Asian American perspectives into the classroom. Teachers can use episodes to spark discussions, supplement history lessons, or provide students with diverse narratives that connect past and present. With its accessible format and wide range of topics, this resource helps foster a deeper understanding of Asian American heritage and experiences.
tag(s): asia (136), canada (25), comics and cartoons (56), cooking (33), courts (24), cultures (226), immigrants (48), immigration (84), japan (64), japanese (56), podcasts (117)
In the Classroom
Assign a podcast episode for students to listen to in class or as homework. Provide guided discussion questions to help them analyze key points, historical events, and cultural contributions. Students can research and create a visual timeline using Time Graphics Timeline Maker reviewed here or Timeline Infographic Templates reviewed here based on topics covered in the podcast, such as Asian American immigration, activism, or landmark legal cases. Students can select a historical figure, event, or topic from the podcast and conduct a mock interview. One student plays the interviewer, while another plays the historical figure, responding based on research. Have students work in small groups to create their short podcast episode using Castbox Creator Studio reviewed here or Adobe Podcast, reviewed here on an Asian American historical topic. They can research, write a script, and record a 3-5 minute segment to share with the class.Act It Out: Stories from Asian American Cultures - Education World
Grades
3 to 8This lesson plan, "Folktales, Fairy Tales, and Myths from Asian American Cultures," engages students in reading and acting out traditional stories from China, Japan, Malaysia, India,...more
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This lesson plan, "Folktales, Fairy Tales, and Myths from Asian American Cultures," engages students in reading and acting out traditional stories from China, Japan, Malaysia, India, and other Asian cultures. Students define and differentiate between folktales, fairy tales, and myths through this activity while developing creative thinking and dramatic skills. Working in cooperative groups, they bring these stories to life through dramatization, fostering an appreciation for diverse cultural narratives. This lesson supports literacy, collaboration, and cultural awareness, making it a dynamic way to explore storytelling and performance in the classroom.
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tag(s): asia (136), china (83), cultures (226), folktales (35), india (33), japan (64), myths and legends (42)
In the Classroom
Have students sit in a circle and take turns reading a folktale aloud, then, after each section, pause to discuss the characters, setting, and cultural elements. Ask students to illustrate and summarize their chosen story by creating a flipbook with each page highlighting a different part of the tale, reinforcing sequencing, comprehension, and creativity. Make the flipbooks digitally using Any Flip reviewed here or Active Textbook reviewed here. Students can rewrite and perform a traditional folktale in a modern setting by updating characters, changing the setting to a familiar place, or introducing modern technology while maintaining the story's core message. Have students research the country of origin for their folktale and create a map using Google My Maps reviewed here or MapHub reviewed here highlighting key cultural elements such as traditional clothing, landmarks, language, and customs.Learning Together by Building Connections - Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center
Grades
K to 12Step into a vibrant tapestry of stories, art, and activism with the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center's "Learning Together" platform. This dynamic educational resource offers...more
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Step into a vibrant tapestry of stories, art, and activism with the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center's "Learning Together" platform. This dynamic educational resource offers educators a wealth of resources to bring Asian American and Pacific Islander voices into the classroom. From lesson plans addressing anti-Asian racism to art-making modules and literature guides, the site provides tools to encourage inclusive, culturally responsive learning. Interactive features like video interviews, downloadable activities, and curated Learning Lab collections support Social Studies, English Language Arts, and Arts integration.
tag(s): asia (136), cultures (226), empathy (37), racism (83)