History

Civic Lessons

1. Character and Citizenship Education- Students will be able to recognize characteristics of a socially healthy citizen. Students will be able to transition from knowledge and understanding of socially healthy traits to applying these in everyday life as a good citizen.
2. Citizenship City- Define "good citizen," explore ways for students to volunteer in the community, and create public service campaigns about the importance of civic responsibility.
3. Citizenship Is A Special Status- To understand why citizenship is an important concept.
4. Civics Jeopardy- The following "game" is a review activity that classes have used to prepare for semester exams.
5. City, County, Community- Define the attributes of good places to live and compare the local community to another American region.
6. Dear Presidential Diary- Develop five first-person diary entries exploring the duties and privileges of the presidency.
7. Developing Country Simulation- Students will understand the importance of agriculture, industry, infrastructure, education, and various social issues to the well-being of a nation.
8. Donkeys, Elephants, and Voters- Learn about political parties by creating new political parties and issue platforms. Plan for a mock convention.
9. Draw It Out- Using the great New York City draft riots of July, 1863, as a starting point, students explore civil disobedience and periods of unrest in American history.
10. Due Process: Search and Seizure- To allow students the chance to see how the case developed, and how it may affect them today.
11. Election Co-nection- Students create an ideal candidate that meets the requirments of a U.S. president. Students conduct an election poll in their community.
12. Engineer A Solution- Identify problems in 19th century New York City, compare them to problems in your own area, and brainstorm possible solutions.
13. Find the Oldest- Identify and research the oldest man-made landmark in your community.
14. Fight For Freedom- Research slavery around the world today and find out more about institutions working to end slavery.
15. Get The Word Out!- Explore issues in your community and write PSAs for local media distribution.
16. Graphically Speaking- Explore the relationship between congressional representation and state population by graphing current statistics.
17. I.O.U.: An Introduction To The National Debt- Introduce the causes and consequences of national debt, relating it to personal debt, and brainstorming solutions.
18. Labor Unions- My goal is to provide the students with a broad introduction to Labor Unions that can help them to understand the background information.
19. Laws, Rights, and Responsiblities: A Teaching Unit- To promote public understanding and appreciation of the law and the American legal system.
20. Making Binding Agreements- To thoroughly explore "offer" and "acceptance" in relationship to making binding agreements.
21. Melting Pot- Through surveys and interviews, identify how immigrants contribute to contemporary American culture, and how they are changed by it.
22. Millennium Challenge- Explore how the Statue of Liberty symbolizes 19th century American ideals, and design a monument to symbolize late 20th century values.
23. Neighborhood Portrait- Identify the features that make your community special, through interviews and multimedia presentations.
24. Painting Presidential Portraits- Redesign U.S. paper currency to recognize six U.S. presidents and describe their significant accomplishments.
25. Paving The Way- Evaluate transportation in your community and develop a proposal to alleviate a specific transportation problem.
26. Plan A Park- Develop a proposal to expand an existing park or create a new one within your community.
27. Presidential Places Quilt- Honor past presidents and explore their connections to Washington, D.C. landmarks through research and the creation of a class "quilt."
28. School Newspaper- Pupils will create a school newspaper containing three aspects: Latest News, Editorial, and Sports. Pupils will post the school newspaper on the school website.
29. Smart Art- Using the work of Thomas Nast as introduction, explore the tools of political cartoonists and create political cartoons of your own.
30. Stowaway- Participate in on online game about immigration in the late 19th century, and create a game of your own about modern-day immigration to the U.S.
31. Tasty Mapping- Identify important governmental and institutional structures in your town by creating an edible map.
32. The Bill of Rights is for Us Today- The purpose of this activity is to acquaint the students with the guaranteed rights of the Bill of Rights, and assist them to see the application of these rights in their daily lives.
33. The Inside Story- Learn more about 19th century urban reformers, and identify problems and solutions in your own community.
34. The Original Thirteen Colonies- Many students dislike learning rote material, but some basic information is necessary in any discipline upon which later structured lessons can be developed. Further, most students are helped in learning if memory tricks are utilized.
35. The Perfect President- Identify the legal requirements, previous experiences, and personality traits that equip someone to be a successful president. Write a job description and a newspaper article.
36. The United States Postal Service- The students will develop a better understanding in reference to: Postage, Zip Codes, Proper Address Placement, and the duties of Postal Workers.
37. To Vote Or Not To Vote?- Examine the history of voting rights in America, explore the current-day problem of low voter turnout, and create community surveys to evaluate different ways to improve voter registration and voter participation.
38. Trail of Discovery- Research the settlers and native populations in your community.
39. What's It Say Today?- Research a local landmark and describe its significance in your community's civic and cultural history.
40. Why a Mock Trial?- Through participation in mock trials and analysis of the activity, students gain an insiders perspective on court room procedures.
41. Why Vote? A Public Awareness Campaign- Learn about the importance of government services in your town, and design a public awareness campaign about voter turnout.
42. You Make The Rules- Learn about the rules governing U.S. citizenship and create your own club with a unique charter and bylaws.

Community Helper Lesson Plan

1.  Community Helpers- Students will be able to recognize community helpers and what they do. Students will participate in PowerPoint slideshow game, "Who Am I?" Students will be able to follow directions and complete all assigned tasks.

2.  Community Helpers- "The purpose of this lesson is to help the children realize that it takes many, varied jobs for a city or town to work as a community."

3.  Community Helpers Are at Your Service- A Web Quest

4.  Community Helpers Involving Parents- The purpose of this lesson is to help the children realize that it takes many, varied jobs for a city or town to work as a community.

5.  Community Interview- "Participate in a class discussion on communities of the past by sharing responses to Community Questionnaire handout."

6.  Creating a Community Based on Real Situations- Civics and financial situations can be difficult for a child to understand. This is a helpful, real life unit to help them truly grasp the concept.

7.  History of the Local Community- The purpose of this activity package is to provide students with activities which will familiarize them with the local area they live in and develop an awareness of how their local community has been influenced by history. The activities also help them become aware of how the local community influences their lives today.

8.  How Communities are Different- "The students will create a Venn diagram to show how their community is different from other communities they know about."

9.  Jobs on File- Students gather information about how people in their community make a living, and then organize that data.

10.                    Lego Block Center- Build a Community Team Project.

11.                    Members in a community- A very nice project-based activity.

12.                    People Who Work- Students will brainstorm jobs that make up any community. Students are introduced to the concepts of “profit” and “not-for-profit” in their own community.

13.                    Places in My Community- "The students will demonstrate their understanding of community by identifying pictures of their neighborhood and defining the purpose of each location."

14.                    Unit on Community Helpers- Objective for the student: The student will increase patterning skills and be able to identify the pattern in the big book used and the tools of various community helpers.

15.                    We All Live Together- This lesson incorporates Kindergarten Social Studies & Language Arts standards with the integration of technology.

16.                    What is a Community?- "Students contribute to a class discussion on what a community is and what features make up a community by constructing a class KWL Chart on communities."

17.                    Where do you live? Community awareness- After completing this activity the student should be able to increase his/her awareness of the make-up of the immediate community.

Election and Voting

1.  Getting Out the Vote: An Election Day Classroom Experiment- "An experiment drives home to students the importance of voting!"

2.  Graphically Speaking- "Explore the relationship between congressional representation and state population by graphing current statistics and taking a historical look at the Constitution."

3.  Home Made Political Parties- The purpose of this activity is to provide students with an understanding of the role of political parties in our democracy, by offering them an opportunity to participate in one of the primary activities of any party, writing a platform.

4.  If I Were President …- "Students think critically about the campaign issues in the current election."

5.  Inviting Candidates to Class- Many students do not know their state legislators or the candidates running for office. They do not understand the power of being informed and the influence they can have on an election.

6.  Presidents at Inauguration Graph: How Old Were They?- "Students graph the presidents' ages at inauguration. Who was the youngest president? the oldest?"

7.  Tasty Mapping- "After learning about government services and branches of local government, students identify important landmarks, institutions, and structures within their own community, creating an edible map to share with classmates, parents and community members."

8.  Take a Stand!- "Students take a unique approach to a classroom discussion/debate of the election process!"

9.  Terms of Office!- "Students create a classroom dictionary of election terms."

10.                    The Electoral College- When has the Electoral College been a deciding factor in an election?

11.                    The Perfect President- "Identify the legal requirements, previous experiences, and personality traits that equip someone to be a successful president."

12.                    To Vote Or Not To Vote- "Examine the history of voting rights in America, explore the current-day problem of low voter turnout, and create community surveys to evaluate different ways to improve voter registration and voter participation."

13.                    What Are the Important Issues?- "Students determine the most important issue of the current campaign."

14.                    Why Vote: A Public Awareness Campaign- "Learn about the important public services that government provides, and by extension, the importance of voting in local, state and federal elections."

Government

1.  Foreign Policy Simulation- This activity is intended to help students understand how various elements of the US foreign policy system operate and to give them practice in conflict resolution.

2.  Home-Made Political Parties- The purpose of this activity is to provide students with an understanding of the role of political parties in our democracy, by offering them an opportunity to participate in one of the primary activities of any party, writing a platform.

3.  How a Bill Becomes a Law- The purpose of this activity package is to provide activities that will encourage students to understand how our government introduces, passes laws, and makes policy decisions and, also, to develop in them an increased awareness of the issues affecting their lives and how they can provide input into the American political process.

4.  Images in World War II- Students will understand the impact of World War II on day-to-day life in the U.S.

5.  Impact Of Government On The Individual- The purpose to this activity, used during the early part of the school year in a required secondary government class, is to begin the process of helping students visualize the government of the United States as a very important part of their everyday existence--- a part which they can impact.

6.  Introduction of Restriction on Freedom of Speech- To demonstrate limits to freedom of speech.

7.  Inviting Candidates to Class- The purpose of having candidates speak is to show that politicians are people and that the students are old enough to decide who they want to represent them in the legislature.

8.  Justice- To provide an opportunity for students to discuss both strengths and weaknesses of the court system in providing equal justice for all and to identify factors that cause these weaknesses and recommend solutions.

9.  Know Your Local Government- The purpose of this activity is to introduce students to the local government structure and the people in the various power positions.

10.                    Political Polls- : Students will understand A) terms of polling B) philosophy of how polls are constructed C) how polls may be inaccurate D) how polls may be used.

11.                    Reorganizing the Bill of Rights- The purpose of the activity is to ask students to look critically at the 26 amendments. Are some more important than others? Can we live without some of them? Do some of them address similar issues?

12.                    Role Of The Government- The intent of this activity is to introduce students to the meaning of the word "government." The students will examine why society needs a government to exist.

13.                    Search & Seizure- A simple simulation inspired by a teacher's guide to a government text engages students in a search and seizure activity that allows an exploration of students' rights within a school setting.

14.                    Separation Of Powers Between The Three Branches Of Government- : The purpose of this lesson is to help students understand the concept of the three branches of government.

15.                    Supreme Court Decisions and Their Effect On Us- The purpose of this activity is to help students understand how Supreme Court decisions affect all of us and what the Supreme Court bases its decisions on.

16.                    Supreme Court Decisions on Freedom of Religion- The wide range of cases help students to understand that this "freedom" has limits and bounds and is constantly under attack.

17.                    The Constitution: Behind Closed Doors- Through the process of simulation students gain insight into the special interests delegates brought to the convention and the compromises made in order to form the most revolutionary document on the history of the world.

18.                    The Constitution: Our Plan for Government- Name the three branches of government; explain how each is dependent on the other to complete its work; describe how the courts acts as a referee.

19.                    The Declaration Of Independence and Your Own Rights- Students will discuss and write about their own personal rights and how their rights are neglected or violated.

20.                    The Search for a Meaningful Dialectic- : The primary purpose of this activity is to introduce each student to a framework of political and social values which may be used to evaluate the validity of any public policy debate, bill, law, etc.

21.                    The U.S. Constitution Power Grab Game- : To encourage students to comprehend these points of emphasis and relate them to the study of the three branches of our federal government.

22.                    The Voting Game- Students will be able to classify political parties between the radical-conservative range. Students will identify their interests with a political party.

23.                    To Be Or Not To Be Armed- The purpose of this activity (to be used in a secondary governments class) is to begin the process of teaching students communication and thinking skills and the procedures necessary to resolve problems.

24.                    Topical Discussions- The purpose of this activity is to encourage students to share their opinions on controversial topics and to be able to state why they hold those particular beliefs.

25.                    Town Meeting: Direct Representation- : Students are to use discussion, negotiation, and political skill to make a group decision.

26.                    U.S. Constitution and Amendments- The students will begin to learn about our framework for government and examine the actual document ans see its direct impact on their lives.

27.                    Voting a Privilege Through Registration- One major theme that rings true is that voting is a privilege; however, this privilege is not possible without voter registration.

28.                    Voting in Legislatures- This activity may be used in connection with a social studies unit on local and state government.

29.                    Voting Simulation- The purpose of this lesson is to help students become aware of the rights and responsibilities of voting.

30.                    We the People- This lesson would take a few class periods. The lesson you see is what I would do the very first day of school to help establish classroom rules.

31.                    Who Gets The Job?- The purpose of this lesson is for students to understand that even though Senate approval is needed for presidential Cabinet appointments, there are no qualifications or standards set for each position.

32.                    You and the U.S. Constitution- To understand why people who work and play together need to follow rules; and how these rules are developed.

High School Social Studies

1.  American Experiences Abroad: An Interview- With foreign trade being so controversial, students need an opportunity to examine a broad spectrum of information about our complex relationships with overseas friends and foes.

2.  American Political Culture- This lesson plan stimulates classroom discussion of basic values. First a personal evaluation is taken, and then those personal values are compared and contrasted with the class as a whole.

3.  Citizenship and the Constitution- Students need to be informed citizens on a local, state and national level.

4.  Civil Rights: Casualties of Wartime- When we warn of threats to our constitutionally guaranteed rights, our students often side more with expedience, for instance, than with due process. Likewise, in international crises, the challenge is leveled: Why don't we just nuke 'em?

5.  Civil War Essay Writing- The learner will be able to list the six major themes presented in class and explain one in detail as an essay answer.

6.  Class Reunion- Lesson prepared in an effort to make students ruminate about their future and preparation for life beyond high school.

7.  Classical Conditioning Experiment- The learner will see the effect of classical conditioning in their everyday life.

8.  Colonial Rules- This particular activity was designed to show students how the colonists felt during this oppressive period.

9.  Communication in U.S. Society; Radio in America- For the MTV generation radio's impact may seem unlikely but this lesson will show them how powerful the second revolution (the first being the printed word) in the media was to life in the United States.

10.                    Concentration/Constitution and Bill of Rights- The class will engage in a spirited competition on the Constitution/Bill of Rights by trying to identify phrases connected with the Constitution/ Bill of Rights.

11.                    Conceptual Analysis In Economics- The purpose of this activity is to involve students in making decisions and pursuing their own interests within a social and economic environment.

12.                    Constitutional Scavenger Hunt- A fun way to learn.

13.                    Cultural Diversity- This activity is designed for teachers who would like to heighten student's awareness of lifestyles, stereotyping, and cultural diversity.

14.                    Dynamics of Relationships- Students will recognize that a relationship is more than the sum of two people, it is dynamic and built on the unique dimensions that are possessed by the people involved.

15.                    Entrepreneur- This activity is used as a group activity. The students work in groups of four to establish a profitable business that also helps the economy of the community.

16.                    Establishing Justice- This lesson can be used when studying the Court system in United States Government or American history when studying the 1960's.

17.                    Ethics in American Government- This activity provides exploration of ethical dilemmas which might face our present government officials.

18.                    Evaluating Crimes- Students will learn that a crime is something one does or fails to do in violation of a law; or it can also be behavior for which government sets a penalty.

19.                    Family Newscast- The purpose of the activity is to allow the students to experience what takes place in the production of a newscast or newsmagazine on a specific issue.

20.                    Foreign Language and Culture- Students will list activities which affect the language under study. (i.e. Bastille Day, Chinese New Year, Ramadan, San Gennaro Festival, Cinco De Mayo, Fasching, Oktoberfest, Carnival, Guy Fawkes Day, Boxing Day, Santa Claus Day, and other activities not found in the United States.

21.                    Foreign Policy Simulation- This activity is a simulation in which students role play to solve various foreign policy problems.

22.                    Forming A Government- The lesson finds the students on an island after their ship has wrecked, or their plane has crashed. Food, fresh water, and shelter are in short supply. The students must form a government, develop laws and penalties.

23.                    Free Enterprise: Business Magazine Project- It allows the creative student with poor writing skills an opportunity to express their economic knowledge and earn a grade that is not hampered by their specific learning deficiency.

24.                    Freedom of the Press- : This lesson focuses on the role the press plays as a "watchdog" for the citizenry. By examining who two reporters uncovered the story behind the Watergate break-in, students see not only the benefits of a free press, but also the obstacles that can be placed in the way of reporters trying to gather information.

25.                    Fun With Pacific Northwest Cities and Towns- The major purpose is fun. It also aids the students with map work.

26.                    Funny Money- The purpose of this(one day) lesson is to stress the importance of good attendance, student promptness, and overall student responsibility.

27.                    Genealogy Research- The main purpose of this activity is to create interest and personalize history.

28.                    Geography of the Middle East- It gives the student a visual image of the boundaries of the nation states in the Middle East. The student will also visualize the crisis areas occupied by Israel.

29.                    Government & Economics: The Ties That Bind- The purpose of this activity is to expand the understanding of students in the areas of both economics and government.

30.                    Group Newspaper Presentations- In connection with my World War I Unit, I assign a group presentation. I assign the membership in the groups to make sure that I have certain strengths in each one.

31.                    Have Minorities Gained Acceptance?- Students will cite evidence gathered from magazines about how much Blacks are accepted into the mainstream of American life. They will support their conclusions by writing an answer to an essay question.

32.                    Home Made Political Parties- The purpose of this activity is to provide students with an understanding of the role of political parties in our democracy, by offering them an opportunity to participate in one of the primary activities of any party, writing a platform.

33.                    How Man Negotiates Away His Natural Freedom- Students are assigned readings on John Locke's views on the political nature of man. This is followed by class discussions on ways in which his views were incorporated into the early U.S. political framework and philosophy.

34.                    Human Growth & Development: Aging- The purpose of this unit on aging is to provide experiences and activities to increase students understanding and empathy towards people of many different ages.

35.                    Introduction of Restrictions on Freedom of Speech- Students often times see the Bill of Rights granting them unlimited rights. The need for them to see the limits of those rights are important. This lesson helps them to see those limits.

36.                    Introduction to Business- The purpose of this activity is to reinforce their knowledge of the current material we covered in class. As an example lets say we covered material concerning wants/needs.

37.                    Iron Triangles- An honest look at politics.

38.                    Jack: Criminal or Victim? or Happily Ever After ...- This lesson encourages students to use all levels of Bloom to look at the case of 'Jack and the Beanstalk' through the eyes of our present legal system.

39.                    Law in the Future- Students will be able to identify the problems associated with applying the U.S. laws and history to an international situation.

40.                    Making Binding Agreements- To thoroughly explore "offer" and "acceptance" in relationship to making binding agreements.

41.                    Negotiating Treaties- This lesson helps students recognize the interaction between early settlers and indigenous people in the U.S.

42.                    One Person's Garbage, Another Person's...?- This lesson will ask students to consider the issue of waste recycling alternatives for isolated settings. They will be asked to transform discarded solid waste into a usable item.

43.                    Password- The students will be able to: Identify vocabulary words pertaining to the Constitution/Bill of Rights.

44.                    Personal Interests And Career Traits- Students will develop an awareness of their personal interests and relate them to career traits. The students will match their traits to various jobs to help them see beyond their immediate future.

45.                    Personal Investments- Students and most adults have very little working knowledge how best to invest their money or the vocabulary of investments.

46.                    Plotting A Hurricane Using Latitude And Longitude- This map skills lesson is to be used in the early part of the school year. It is designed to help students learn how to use the grid system to locate areas on a map and to help students understand that geography puts emphasis on "place."

47.                    Political Polls- Students must know polls are statements of short term probability that may easily be skewed. They are a tool to help man make rational decisions.

48.                    Pornography Debate- The purpose of this activity is to provide students with the insight into the complexities of protecting the individuals right of expression.

49.                    Post Nuclear War Survival- The purpose of this unit is to have students work together to reach consensus of a controversial issue. It helps them realize that sometimes there are no right and wrong answers.

50.                    Presidential Elections: A Simulation- Through this activity, students will come to better recognize and understand the intricacies of U.S. presidential elections--the simple and noble aspects, as well as those characteristics which have come under great criticism.

51.                    Role of Government- The intent of this activity is to introduce students to the meaning of the word "government." The students will examine why society needs a government to exist.

52.                    Search & Seizure Laws- The students will observe first hand a simulation of what the New Jersey vs. T.L.O. (1985) court case was about. This allows students the chance to see how the case developed, and how it may affect them today.

53.                    Sectionalism in the Early US- The purpose of this activity is to aid the students in putting themselves into a situation that demands a change of attitude from the 1990's to the early 1800's.

54.                    Separation of Powers- The purpose of this lesson is to help students understand the concept of the three branches of government.

55.                    Shoplifting Simulation- To further student's knowledge concerning juvenile justice, and to make them aware of the seriousness of the crime of shoplifting.

56.                    States & Capitals- To help the students learn in cooperative way, the geographic locations of each state of the United States.

57.                    Supreme Court Decisions and Their Effect On Us- The purpose of this activity is to help students understand how Supreme Court decisions affect all of us and what the Supreme Court bases its decisions on.

58.                    Supreme Court Decisions on Freedom of Religion- The wide range of cases help students to understand that this "freedom" has limits and bounds and is constantly under attack.

59.                    Supreme Court Rulings- In our changing society it is important for students to be knowledgeable concerning the potential flow of Supreme Court decisions by the high court.

60.                    Symbolic Speech- This lesson is to show students the role of the Supreme Court in respect to interpreting the law.

61.                    Teaching Basic Banking Principles- An understanding of banking is important for our students as we face the monetary situation of the coming years. This lesson is a good tool for getting them started.

62.                    The Declaration Versus The Communist Manifesto- In this activity a student will be challenged to see if he or she can discern the difference between the values found in the Declaration of Independence (and consequently, is a part of our system) and those of the Communist Manifesto.

63.                    The Founding Fathers- To lay the groundwork for understanding the people who were the first colonists and the government they left behind.

64.                    The Identification, Mapping, and Personification of Countries Involved in World War II- The floor map gives students a different perspective of geography and an opportunity to creatively demonstrate the knowledge they have gained. It reinforce traditional map work and builds confidence.

65.                    The Nineteenth Amendment- This activity provides specific knowledge about Susan B. Anthony and also about the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. The activity stimulates analytical thinking skills and class discussion by learning how different groups of people received the right to vote before women received this right.

66.                    The Presidential Campaign Game- The purpose of this political game is to give the students experience in working within the political process.

67.                    The Search for a Meaningful Dialectic- The primary purpose of this activity is to introduce each student to a framework of political and social values which may be used to evaluate the validity of any public policy debate, bill, law, etc.

68.                    The Stock Market- The purpose of this activity is to help students to have at least a simple understanding of the stock market, and also see how many factors can influence the market.

69.                    The Stock Market Game- The purpose of this activity is to give students a working knowlege and vocabualry of the stock market.

70.                    The US Constitution Power Grab Game- To encourage students to comprehend these points of emphasis and relate them to the study of the three branches of our federal government.

71.                    The Voting Game- Students will be able to classify political parties between the radical-conservative range. Students will identify their interests with a political party.

72.                    The Holocaust- The student will learn about prejudice, racism, and stereotyping in any society.

73.                    The Middle East- Following the successful completion of the introductory activity on the Middle East, 12th graders will be able to explain the different Middle East countries and their relationships with each other, with 100% accuracy.

74.                    The New Deal- The student will analyze how the Great Depression affected children.

75.                    The Pottery Project- Begin lesson by assigning a different Native American culture region to each group in your class. The group will then decorate a clay pot to reflect the culture of their assigned region. While paint is the most fun, colored pencils work best.

76.                    The Rain Forest- This project is long term and the culmination is the creation of a "Tropical Rain Forest" in the classroom. We had the students do research on a rain forest and then re-created it.

77.                    The Ripple of Society- Given a list of categories students will be able to come up with a minimum of twelve things that have been integrated into our culture and explain how they have changed the culture.

78.                    The Sistine Chapel Painting Project- I have students watch "The Agony and The Ecstasy", or you could read it with an upper level class, to get an idea of what Michaelangleo's life was like. The kids enjoy the love/hate relationship portrayed between Pope Julius and Michaelangelo. After viewing the movie, I introduce the project, explaining that the students will replicate chosen panels of the ceiling.

79.                    The Treasure Seekers- Students will discuss the connection between exploring and understanding the world. Students will explain the importance of organizations supporting scientists.

80.                    To Be or Not to Be Armed- The purpose of this activity (to be used in a secondary governments class) is to begin the process of teaching students communication and thinking skills and the procedures necessary to resolve problems.

81.                    Topical Discussions- The purpose of this activity is to encourage students to share their opinions on controversial topics and to be able to state why they hold those particular beliefs.

82.                    Town Meeting: Direct Representation- Students are to use discussion, negotiation, and political skill to make a group decision.

83.                    Trading with China- Research to learn about China's human rights record, labor unions and international trade as they relate to the China trade bill.

84.                    Treasures and Fingerprints- Fingerprints, getting to know the people in your school and community.

85.                    Voting a Privilege Through Registration- Students in the classroom will be asked to help prepare the student body for voter registration by making posters and working through rosters to determine who has voted and who has not.

86.                    We Live In An International Community- The purpose of this activity is to show that students are daily involved in the world of international trade and the world economic picture.

87.                    Who Gets the Job?- The purpose of this lesson is for students to understand that even though Senate approval is needed for presidential Cabinet appointments, there are no qualifications or standards set for each position.

88.                    Why a Mock Trial?- While learning the details of trial process and procedures, students are also developing a number of critical skills that are universally necessary.

89.                    World War II- The importance of this lesson will help the students later understand the affects of World War II on the World as a whole.

Kindergarten –grade 3 history

1.  Assembly Lines- In this activity students form an assembly line to make a picture.

2.  Australia- Students will create a travel brochure for Australia.

3.  Being Treated Equally- To let children experience prejudice first hand, in reference to Martin Luther King Day.

4.  Career Collage- The goal of this activity is to expose students to the numerous careers that exist in this world.

5.  Chain of Compliments- Students will give and receive compliments to and from their classmates. This activity can promote self-esteem as well as classroom cooperation.

6.  City, Suburb, or Country?- Students discuss the characteristics of life in the country, in a suburb, and in a city. Students compare and contrast general environmental differences, and explore their immediate environment.

7.  Creating an Edible Map- Students will create a map and examine the physical geography, borders, and/or cities/towns of an area.

8.  Disaster Drill Guide- In this activity, students will create an emergency drill guide that will help them know what to do in the event of an emergency at school.

9.  Family Crest- Children can begin to think about their family histories and their own lives by making a family crest.

10.                    Honor Special People- Students design a postage stamp to honor a special person. Students identify people who have made a difference, analyze why people commemorate others, and describe ways individuals can help others.

11.                    How Did Johnny Appleseed Help the Pioneers Move West?- The student will be able to understand how Johnny Appleseed helped the early pioneers who were moving westward to start new homes and farms.

12.                    Love- The students will be able to identify different ways that they can show others that they love them.

13.                    Made in the USA- Students map products made in the United States. Students discuss regional interdependence and identify goods the U.S. produces and trades.

14.                    Make a Map- Students will create a map and a map key, understand that a map shows the view from above, and use a map key to interpret symbols and locate places and objects on a map.

15.                    Mapping the School- Students will develop their mapping skills by creating an object map of the school.

16.                    Martin Luther King Jr. Was a Great Civil Rights Leader- The student will be able to understand how Martin Luther King Jr. spoke out for civil rights and led protests and marches demanding fair laws for all people.

17.                    My Personal Treasures- Students will learn and appreciate the "personal treasures" of their classmates as well as their own.

18.                    Our Flag- In this activity children make a United States flag collage. They understand that the flag is a national symbol, explain what the stars and stripes stand for, and appreciate the role national symbols play in our society.

19.                    Playground Map- Students will develop their map-making skills, as well as their sense of direction.

20.                    Presidents' Day Home Page- The virtual museums on George Washington and Abraham Lincoln are designed for primary students and classroom use. Students will enjoy browsing through the respective museums individually, with a partner or as a part of a group.

21.                    School Rooms- As children play the School Rooms game, they reinforce their understanding of commonly used school terms in a fun, noncompetitive atmosphere.

22.                    Teamwork- This activity will give students the opportunity to consider what is involved in cooperative efforts and why real teamwork can be very effective.

23.                    The Civil Rights Movement Begins- The student will be able to understand that long after the Civil War was over many African-American people were not allowed to do things that everyone else could do.

24.                    Trading Cards- What better way to have children share information about themselves than to make trading cards.

25.                    Using Grids- Students make a map of their favorite room. They create a map, a map key, and a map index. Students use a grid to find and describe the location of specific places.

26.                    We All Live Together- The students will draw their house, write about their picture and will be able to read their writing to the teacher and class.

27.                    Where Have You Been?- Children reinforce their understanding of sense words and build their communication skills as they tell friends about a place they've been to and a place they'd like to visit. As children listen to one another, they learn about different places.

28.                    Where I Live- This activity will enable children to see that other neighborhoods can be different from their own, but also similar in many ways.

29.                    Where We Came From- In preparation for the activity, have children ask their parents and relatives to list the countries where their ancestors were born.

30.                    Who Helps?- Children develop their understanding of how their families function and renew their appreciation for various family members.

31.                    Who Was Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.?- The student will be able to recognize Martin Luther King Jr. as a great leader who worked to get equal rights for all people.

32.                    Wish You Were Here- Children will take a closer look at the world just outside their doors and share their experiences with their classmates.

Grade 3-6 social studies

1.  Air Pollution: What Can You Do?- This lesson is about air pollution awareness. It will help students to understand what air pollution is and how students can communicate their feelings about it.

2.  Armchair Travelers- In this activity, students answer this question by planning and taking a five-day virtual trip to any place they wish in the United States.

3.  Canadian Province Puzzle- Students will examine the shapes of each province as well as where it belongs in Canada.

4.  Cathedrals, Pyramids and Mosques- Includes 3 lesson plans.

5.  Classroom Bill of Rights- In this lesson, students will first become aware that they have rights as human beings and as children.

6.  Come to Canada! Poster- Students will examine the positive aspects of Canada (eg. diversity, natural resources, scenery) while they design a poster attracting people to come to Canada (travel or immigrate).

7.  Convince Me!- They may be less conscious of the purposes and intents of advertisements that try to shape their opinions and affect their behavior. In this activity, they look for and analyze examples of those ads.

8.  Countries of the World- "This is a game idea I made up by myself to help the kids in my class learn the countries of the world. I teach 6th graders. It really helped them to become familiar with the countries of the world."

9.  Creating Stories Using Pictographs- To incorporate Native American history, culture, and philosophy into an educational program that is significant for children today.

10.                    Designing a Dream Store- Students will plan, create, and advertise their very own, unique store.

11.                    Families Unit- Everyone is part of a family.

12.                    Famous African Americans- The students will be able to display their learning of famous African Americans in a variety of ways.

13.                    First Nations Lesson Plans- 10 lessons on the first nations.

14.                    Government Action Timelines- Students explain a sequence of events, make and use a timeline, interpret a timeline, and analyze cause and effect relationships with a timeline.

15.                    Homer Price (the Doughnuts)- In the process of figuring out how to sell the doughnuts, Homer helps a woman find her bracelet which she lost in the doughnut machine.

16.                    Human Survival Gear- The purpose of this activity is to help students learn ten parts or systems of the human body that help them survive and to consider individual actions they can take to avoid threats to their own "survival gear."

17.                    Impact Of Government On The Individual- They see voting as a duty, and they, like many of their parents, see government as playing a relatively minor role in their daily lives.

18.                    Kwanzaa African American Culture Unit- The students will be able to orally share ideas before, during, and after the reading of the book and write one paragraph on what they think Kwanzaa is.

19.                    Lesson Plan: The Civil War- As a result of completing this unit, students will be able to discuss some of the social, political, and personal issues that Americans confronted during the Civil War era.

20.                    Life in a Castle- The students to understand and be able to write about life in a castle.

21.                    Life Map- Students will learn and appreciate the major events that have happened in their own lives as well as others. This activity emphasizes that a person's experiences greatly determine what kind of person they are.

22.                    Map it Out!- In this activity, students will make a class map that shows the routes students take when they travel from home to school.

23.                    Martin Luther King Jr.- The students will recognize the chronology of Martin Luther King's life.

24.                    Medieval Times- This unit will teach about what life was like during the Medieval Times. Students will learn about ballads, tournaments, and dance. They will learn about themselves as they create a code of chivalry and a coat of arms.

25.                    Mexican Food- Following a lecture on the history of Mexican food, grade five students will be able to recognize and order Mexican cuisine, at a restaurant, with 100% accuracy.

26.                    Multicultural Games- Students will learn, appreciate, and teach the history, cultural significance, and the rules of a multicultural game.

27.                    Natural Resources- Students explain the ways in which people interact with natural resources and identify ways natural resources are protected and threatened, managed and mismanaged.

28.                    Plan a Vacation- In this activity students map the route and highlights of a trip. Students trace routes on a map, identify and locate tourist attractions, and explore their state.

29.                    Record a Moment in Time- Students design an accordian book of historic events. Students use art to tell a story and record an historic moment. Students analyze points of view in art.

30.                    Stranded- Students will identify the basic economic problem by finding specific examples that occur in society during the survival activity, state the three fundamental questions that every society must answer, and recognize that people try to make the best choice from among their alternatives.

31.                    That's Incredible Show!- Children will research world records and then portray the people who broke them in a class interview show.

32.                    The Age of Imperialism- "The Age of Imperialism" represents one chapter of An On-Line History of the United States, a new program that combines an engaging narrative with the broad resources available to students on the Internet.

33.                    The City- The students will learn that a city is defined by specific characteristics.

34.                    The First Americans Today- The goal is to begin the process of helping students visualize the Native American culture as a very important part of their everyday existence.

35.                    The Pony Express- In this activity, students plot the route of the Pony Express, discover the kinds of terrain it crossed and calculate the number of legs needed to cover the distance of its total route.

36.                    The Real McCoy- Elijah McCoy was an African-American inventor who successfully designed an automatic oil cup that may have inspired the popular phrase, "the real McCoy."

37.                    Trading Day with the Yagua Indians: A Simulation- Students take on the roles of "Tourist" and "Yagua Indian" to experience what is like to barter for items without the benefit of spoken language or a shared culture.

38.                    US States and Capitals- US Map puzzle--free software for learning the locations of the states, and their capitals. It works like a wooden map puzzle, except you can't lose Iowa under the bookcase.

39.                    Using Scale- Students use a map scale to determine actual distances. They draw a map to scale and evaluate the merits of maps drawn to scale.

40.                    Using Your Community as a Learning Resource- Students will be able to use their community resources to affect change within their community.

41.                    Water Wasters- Students will be surprised by how much water they can save if they brush their teeth without leaving the water running.

42.                    Where Do You Live?- After completing this activity the student should be able to increase his/her awareness of the make-up of the immediate community.

Midlevel social studies

1.  Ahoy! Pirates- WOW! a Pirate unit would be lots of fun for elementary students.

2.  All About Me Unit- It builds sight vocabulary and develops a sense of community in your classroom.

3.  American Settlements- This project will cover why and how the physical environment affects the different types of settlements across the United States for 4th or 5th grades.

4.  American West Theme Ideas- A variety of ideas on how teach western themes.

5.  Ancient Egypt- Everything Egypt!

6.  Ancient Greece and Greek Mythology- A complete greek unit. Complete with postcards and puzzles.

7.  Anne Frank- To teach others to be just as vigilant about the subtle forms of discrimination and prejudice as we are about blatant acts of violence and hatred.

8.  Another way to teach about American Culture- A quick idea.

9.  Biography Interview- The team will then take turns interviewing each other in front of class, while the other person is that person they are researching.

10.                    Black History- A complete unit for Black History Month.

11.                    Book In A Couple of Days: Year of Impossible Goodbyes- Works for other books as well.

12.                    Branches of Government Windsocks- After students discuss the 3 branches of USA government they make a windsock.

13.                    Building a Pioneer Cabin- The students will understand how difficult it was for the pioneers to build their homes.

14.                    Camping Vests- At the end of two weeks, the children will be able to tie a knot, make s'mores, role -play correct swimming motions, recite fire safety, and other neat camping procedures you may want to include.

15.                    Can I Make It?- Students are given a monthly salary (I use $950) and a monthly budget form. They are required to buy a car, pay rent and utilities, and are given a list of optional expenses such as health ins., auto ins., etc.

16.                    Cemetery Studies- . One main purpose of this to encourage an appreciation of the unique historical significance of that place. Nearly every community has an old cemetery of historic and educational value.

17.                    Central America Group Map Project- Students will use the guide map to enlarge a map of Central America onto the poster paper.

18.                    Change Happens- Students use a comic-strip format to show change and development in various aspects of everyday life.

19.                    Cities- Have the children make a skyscraper by cutting the construction paper and adding windows and doors.

20.                    Civil Rights Movement- Students outline the contributions of such figures in African-American history as Martin Luther King, Jr., W.E.B. Du Bois, Malcolm X, Jesse Jackson, and many others.

21.                    Class Time Capsule- In this activity, children will record information about themselves and the class. Then they will include this information in a time capsule that they will reopen at the end of the year to see how they have changed.

22.                    Colony Brochure- This lesson was done in conjunction with the computer class. After studying the 13 colonies, students were to create a brochure advertising one of the colonies.

23.                    Come With Me to Africa- To introduce children to the cultural and social diversities of the continent of Africa.

24.                    Community Helpers- The students will be able to name some of the different types of helpers there are in their community. The students will also be able to write down how the different helpers benefit or help the community.

25.                    Comparing Christmases- To learn the Christmas customs of another culture in a foreign country.

26.                    Co-operative Group Jeopardy Review- Students in each group write answers to ALL questions and the teacher circulates quickly around the room to check answers and award points.

27.                    Costa Rica Lessons- Following the introduction to the unit on Costa Rica, students will have a basic knowledge of the country, including its location, type of government, and some aspects of its history.

28.                    Countries- Students will locate and recreate a map of given country with capital located.

29.                    Create a City- Using Penn's example of a checkerboard city (Philadelphia) students will apply the necessary concepts to develop a city on their own.

30.                    Create Your Own Infomercial: Industrial Revolution- After studying the inventions of the Industrial Revolution, students apply what they have learned to present day.

31.                    Creating a Colony- For this activity, begin after you have introduced the basic ideas of the Thriteen Original Colonies.

32.                    Creating a Healthier Culture- It is critical that everyone understand the importance of the culture we find ourselves in because that culture impacts our behavior.

33.                    Cultures in Texas- Students will understand how all the different cultures in Texas make us a more interesting place.

34.                    Current Events Coverage Comparison- Students will follow a current events news item for one week(or two for added detail) in various sources and write a paper summarizing their findings on the coverage.

35.                    Democracy- Provides for reflection on concept of democracy.

36.                    Developing a Class Constitution- The students will become familiar with the course requirements and class procedures for US Government and relate this process to the development of the US Constitution.

37.                    Donde Vives?- To invent imaginary families.

38.                    Dr. Martin Luther King , Jr.- A chant from the times of Dr. King.

39.                    Dream Machine- Dream Machine in a Nutshell: students gather data, translate it into information and maintain it.

40.                    Economics- For this activity, begin after you have introduced the basic ideas of law of supply and demand. Group the students into producers, middlemen, retailers and consumers.

41.                    Edible Topographical Geography- A great idea!

42.                    Elections- A complete election unit.

43.                    Emotions and Feelings- A complete on-line unit.

Native American Lesson Plans

1.  Native Americans- Students select a native american nation and research its culture. Students then complete a variety of on-line and off-line activities using the results of their research.

2.  Native Americans- "Students will learn that many years ago there were many different Indian tribes who lived in America, and depended on the land for food, shelter and clothing."

3.  Native Americans- "To introduce children to the culture of a variety of Native American tribes through literature and related activities."

4.  Native Americans Across the Curriculum- PDF format.

5.  Not Just Another Native American Lesson Plan- PDF format.

6.  Shelter of the Native American Tribes of the Eastern Woodlands Region- Students learn about the shelter used by many of the tribes that lived in the Eastern Woodlands region of the United States.

7.  Three Native American Groups- PDF format.

8.  Totem Pole- As a result of this unit, the students will be able to produce Totem Poles to represent a story.