4292 social-studies results | sort by:
return to subject listing
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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 This curation includes a selection of historical documents, oral traditions, archaeological findings, and more in the fields of medicine, military service, literature, music, and cuisine.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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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 (141), 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.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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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.Power of the Purse: The Contributions of Hispanic Americans - New American Economy
Grades
9 to 12Power of the Purse: The Contributions of Hispanic Americans is an article featuring how Hispanics fill crucial roles in the job market and start and own their businesses at higher ...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
Power of the Purse: The Contributions of Hispanic Americans is an article featuring how Hispanics fill crucial roles in the job market and start and own their businesses at higher rates than the rest of the population. The article shares many graphs of employment information.
In the Classroom
Students can continue investigating Hispanics in the job market and owning their own businesses. 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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
NextShark - NextShark
Grades
9 to 12NextShark is a prominent news platform dedicated to covering stories about Asian and Asian American communities, with a focus on business, culture, entertainment, politics, technology,...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
NextShark is a prominent news platform dedicated to covering stories about Asian and Asian American communities, with a focus on business, culture, entertainment, politics, technology, and lifestyle. The site aims to deliver timely, high-quality reporting on issues that matter. Featured articles include topics such as California's efforts to combat fentanyl in Asian and Pacific Islander communities, China's response to U.S. tariffs, and legislative debates like the proposed ban on Chinese land ownership in Texas.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): asia (136)
In the Classroom
Students can use Padlet reviewed here to post facts that they learned from the article. Students can use Google Drawings reviewed here to compare and contrast articles from other newsfeeds. Finally, students can virtually interview an Asian American person from the company.Jewish Americans: Identity, History, Experience - ICS Resources
Grades
6 to 12The "ICS Jewish Americans: Identity, History, and Experience" lesson plan provides a comprehensive resource for teaching students about Jewish American history, diversity, and identity....more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The "ICS Jewish Americans: Identity, History, and Experience" lesson plan provides a comprehensive resource for teaching students about Jewish American history, diversity, and identity. It includes essential questions, learning outcomes, primary source documents, multimedia resources, and hands-on activities like the Identity Iceberg and Jewish American Diversity exercises. The lesson encourages students to explore visible and invisible aspects of identity, analyze historical experiences, and draw connections between Jewish Americans and other ethnic groups. This resource is ideal for fostering classroom discussions on culture, heritage, and inclusion.
tag(s): cultures (226), diversity (46), identity (37), jews (52), perspective (20), religions (113)
In the Classroom
Students can analyze the visible and invisible aspects of identity by creating their own "icebergs," identifying elements of their identity that are seen versus those that are hidden. Have students compare Jewish American identity struggles with those of other ethnic groups, discussing themes of immigration, discrimination, and cultural preservation. They can create Venn diagrams on paper or using Canva's Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here or Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here. Students can also create a short story, poem, or digital presentation using Powtoon, reviewed here, imagining the journey of a Jewish American immigrant based on historical sources.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): asia (136), careers (182), identity (37), immigrants (48), immigration (84), oral history (14), podcasts (116), 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.Marketing Careers - PBS LearningMedia
Grades
6 to 12Discover the world of marketing and career opportunities! The Marketing Careers resources on PBS LearningMedia offer engaging lesson plans and activities that introduce students to...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
Discover the world of marketing and career opportunities! The Marketing Careers resources on PBS LearningMedia offer engaging lesson plans and activities that introduce students to key marketing concepts like branding, advertising, consumer behavior, and digital strategies. Through interactive lessons, real-world examples, and career-focused discussions, students gain insight into the creativity and skills needed in the marketing industry. This collection is valuable for integrating business, communication, and career readiness.
tag(s): careers (182)