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Browse through the Social Studies Bookstore and save up to 40% from Barnes and Noble

Antrhopology

Abacus  Grade: 3 - 5

Bound Feet  Grade: 3 - 5

Lunar Calendar  Grade: 3 - 5

Three Stone Ages  Grade: 7


Archaeology

Archaeological Methods  Grade: 4 - 6

Analyzing Artifacts  (gr. 5-7) The purpose of this activity is to provide students with experience in analyzing artifacts and relics and constructing a hypothetical scenario describing a pre-historic culture. 

Shoe Box Archaeology(gr. 4-8) The learner will develop an ability to assemble clues and decipher various indicators concerning one person's life and family background. In this way, he or she will develop and understanding of the way in which present day archaeologists "dig" for the unlocking of our past. 

Browse for some books about archaeology


Civics

An Approach to Teaching Religious Tolerance (gr. 9-12) Students will be encouraged to think about "What is truth?" and how different people can have different interpretations, traditions, cultures, languages, and, ultimately, belief systems or religions to explain that truth. Students will examine various cultures and history to see how beliefs can be learned. Hopefully, an awareness of the importance of religious tolerance will be developed. 

Arrest (gr. 9-12) The purpose of the activity "Arrest" is to give students first hand knowledge about an arrest of a classmate and his/her subsequent trial. Students become active participants in the legal process as they become witnesses, jurors and defendants in a trial simulation. 

The Bill of Rights is for Us Today (gr. 7-9) 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. 

Character and Citizenship Education: A Class Citizenship Tree for Elementary Students (gr. 2-5) The purpose of this lesson plan is to present to elementary students the characteristics that define a socially healthy citizen.

Citizenship Is A Special Status (gr. K-4)) Class discussion of why citizenship is important and how the life of a citizen differs from the life of a non-citizen. 

Community Helpers (gr. K-2) 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. 

Developing Country Simulation (gr. 7-12) In this simulation, students will receive the opportunity to make decisions about allocating resources, witness the results of these decisions, and experience the unexpected in an ongoing simulation in which they attempt to develop the most successful nation. 

Due Process: Search and Seizure (gr.11-12) The students will observe first hand a simulation of what the New Jersey vs. T.L.O. (1985) court case was about.

How to Know if You Are a Democrat or Republican (gr. 7-12) Students will learn what political party they belong to. 

Laws, Rights, and Responsiblities: A Teaching Unit (gr. 3) To assist in providing an opportunity for third grade students to gain an introductory understanding of laws, rights and responsibilities. 

Making Binding Agreements (gr. 11-12) To thoroughly explore "offer" and "acceptance" in relationship to making binding agreements. 

The Original Thirteen Colonies (gr. 7-8) The purpose of this activity is to reinforce the importance of the ratification process which was required to make the Constitution viable. The activity familiarizes students with the states involved and gives them a tool for expanding their memory in use for other subjects. 

The United States Postal Service (gr. PreK-2) The students will develop a better understanding in reference to: Postage, Zip Codes, Proper Address Placement, and the duties of Postal Workers. 

Why a Mock Trial? (gr. 11-12) Through participation in mock trials and analysis of the activity, students gain an insiders perspective on court room procedures.


Current Events

Approach to Current Events  Grade: 5 - 12
This is an activity that I use in Civics (Government), U.S. History (11th) and World History (12th). This activity is designed to encourage students to read newspapers and to watch network and local news reports. This increases critical thinking skills, encouraging analysis and criticism. Students are encouraged to express opinions with support. 

Are You Y2K A-OK?  Grade: 11 - 12

Awareness of Current Events  Grade: 5 - 7

Current Event Jeopardy  Grade: 4 - 12
In order to create some variety and fun while studying our weekly current event newsweek, we will create questions and answers to use in a game similar to Jeopardy. Cooperative skills will also be used as the students work together in their groups of four.

Current Events Awareness  Grade: 5 - 7
To increase student awareness of current events at local, national and international levels 

Current Events  Grade: 3 - 5
This lesson enables students to familiarize themselves with different nations, their locations, and cultures. 

Difference between Local and National News  Grade: 4 - 7
To learn about newspapers published in other cities 

Family Newscast  Grade: 10 - 12
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. It also will allow for and encourage students creativity in the production of commercials or skits pertaining to the issue you desire to cover in any social studies area. 

Geography and Current Events  Grade: 6 - 12
Students need to be aware of the events that are happening in their world. The best way to accomplish this is by reading the newspaper and becoming informed. 

Using the Internet to Express Your Voice (gr. 9-12) In this lesson, students will use the Courier Journal's internet site "Teens Let's Hear Your Smart Mouth" to voice their opinions on a current issue. Then the students will choose an issue or event and write to their Senators in Congress.


Economics

Baa, Baa, Black Sheep, Have You Any Goods?  Grade: kindergarten - 2

Canadian Currency  Grade: 5

Conceptual Analysis In Economics (gr. 9-12) The purpose of this activity is to involve students in making decisions and pursuing their own interests within a social and economic environment. Students should develop skills such as critical thinking, decision making, and assertiveness; attitudes, intuition, and the kinds of knowledge and understanding that will enhance continuous change and growth. 

Consumer Borrowing and Saving (gr. 11-12) To give students the needed background in the positive and negative aspects of credit, its impact upon individuals and the nation, and practical knowledge and understanding of the wise use of credit. 

Division of Labor (gr. 4-12) When studying about the Industrial Revolution and its effects on workers and productivity a short simulation will help students understand why the concept of division of labor was utilized in the fledgling industries. 

Entrepreneur (gr. 10-12) 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. Give students 2-4 days to do research-- then schedule presentations. 

Government & Economics: The Ties That Bind (gr. 11-12) The purpose of this activity is to expand the understanding of students in the areas of both economics and government. It is to also show the relationship between these two subjects and how, over the course of time, our views regarding these two subjects has changed. Its third purpose is to show the relationship of these ideas to current political and economic issues. 

Interpreting Economic Indicators (gr. 8-12) Economic indicators are characteristics of an economy that economists use to determine the health of the economy. This activity allows students to explore the many indicators our government follows in order to measure regional and national economic activity. 

Micro Economics - Personal Budgeting (gr. 9-12) The purpose of the class is to show students that life in the "real world" away from the secure confines of home is drastically different. Decisions must be made with your spouse or, if you're single, by yourself. The outlook changes when the money comes out of your pocket and not someone else's. 

The School Store(gr. 4) 1.To understand the need to define categories of store items as a fundamental part of the organization of the store. 2.To use the computer to manage, organize, and access information.  3.To determine which jobs are better handled by computers and which by humans. 

The Stock Market (gr. 11-12) 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. They begin to understand how many things are inter-related - the stock market and politics for example. And they gain responsibility and enhance their ability to think and make decisions. 

The Stock Market Game (gr. 9-12)

Supply and Demand This lesson allows for personal involvement in the concept of supply and demand which helps the students see how it relates to their everyday life.

Teaching Basic Banking Principles (gr. 7-12) This is a lesson that is intended to be used as a method of teaching basic banking principles. Rather than a dry textbook lesson, this lesson (which is probably best done orally, but can be utilized as a take- home or in-class reading assignment) provides an interesting approach to showing how banks "create" money, what reserves are, and what a "run" on a bank is. The lesson is adaptable to whatever the needs are in your particular situation. 

Ups and Downs of the Stock  Market (gr. 9-10) To introduce students to the ups and downs of the stock market 


Geography

Africa (gr. 2-4)Students will be learning information about Africa within a month time period. The unit will consist of the overall features of Africa. The countries, landforms, and animals. Toward the end of the month, we will focus one-two weeks on Kenya. The learner will do various art activities to help them focus on the concepts being studied. Through the unit the learner will be responsible for a country and an animal. The responsibility involves finding facts and information on the item and then sharing this information with the class. 

Air Pollution (gr. 4-6) Air pollution is a growing problem today. This lesson plan is designed to teach students about the problem, its effects on our environment and health and the latest methods designed to combat air pollution. 

Alaska's Climate Zone (gr. 6-8) This lesson discusses the four main climate regions in Alaska. It discusses the precipitation and the temperatures of these four regions. 

All Around the School Yard (gr. 3-5) To introduce students to map making and map reading. 

Canada on Postcards (gr. 3 or 4) Each student will be given a 4x6 index card, on the front of the card they will draw something that they learned and found interesting about Canada. On the back of the postcard they will explain what it is and why they found it interesting. 

The Change Role of the Iron Range (gr. 4-5) The iron range located in northern Minnesota is a unique geographical area that can teach children many valuable things. It can teach students about maps, immigration, and natural resources. This lesson teaches students about mining, natural resources, and economies. The iron range is used as a case study, We will be tracking ore mining to taconite to tourism. Children will learn the changing economic function of the iron range

Class Culture

Classroom Organization (gr. 6-12) The purpose of this activity is to begin the very first day of class with a reminder of the ways we use social studies skill for everyday tasks.

Communities (gr. 3-4) The students will understand what a community is. 

Comparing Cultures (gr. 1-5) This lesson will encourage students to use the higher level thinking skills and will help them learn to better cooperate with their peers. It will also help students develop a respect for cultures different from their own. 

The Continent Game (gr. 4-6) To provide students with the skills to compare the earth's continents in a variety of ways. 

Cultures of Our Nation (gr. K-4) The purpose of this activity is to build self-esteem and allow students to become more aware of their rich cultures. It.also allows for students to realize how their cultures have contributed to making America what it is today. 

Developed or Underdeveloped? (gr. 5-12) For many years there has been controversy about what it means for a nation to be "developed" or "underdeveloped", "third,world", "haves" and "have-nots". This activity is designed to help students be aware of the controversy and to examine the meaning of development to a nation and to man. 

Electronic Mapping (gr. 7-12) The purpose of this project, designed to implement during the early part of the school year, is to enhance the process of helping students locate specific countries, oceans, capitals, etc. 

Finding Your Spot in the World (gr. 4-8) How better to introduce students to maps, location and movement than to see exactly where their house is located and where their ancestors have lived. This activity does that. 

Formation and Appearance of a Tornado (gr. 3-5)

The Five Themes of Geography (gr. 5-8) This activity will provide an overview or serve as a review of the five fundamental themes of geography. 

Five Themes of Geography and Current Events (gr. 4-12) The purpose is the students will use the five themes of geography; 1) location, 2) place, 3) human interaction and the environment, 4) movement and communication, and 5) regions. The student will use any media source - TV, radio, newspaper, magazines, etc. by using the five themes they will break down and analyze the news event. The news event must be world news. 

Geography Of The Middle East (gr. 10-12) The objective is to have the learner identify the nations in the Middle East and the Golan Heights, Sinai, and the West Bank. 

Geo-Trip (gr. 5) Purpose is to give students an opportunity to be creative; develop a brochure that can include travel scheduling, geographical features, illustrations, and sharpen language arts skills. 

Good Apples (gr. 3-6)  The purpose of this lesson, used during the early part of the school year, is to introduce the concept that everyone is the same in some ways and different in others. 

The Identification, The Mapping, And The Personification Of Countries Involved In World War II (gr. 11-12) This activity is designed to help students appreciate the geography, actions, and relationships of countries involved in World War II. 

Inca Expansionism (gr. 10-12) As a result of this activity, students will become familiar with some aspects of the Incas while learning the skills associated with making a map overlay. 

The Influence of Physical Geography/Climate (gr. 6-12) Largely due to the development of technology -air conditioners, gas and electric heating, air travel- students often seem to lose an appreciation for the limits and demands from the physical world around them. The description here will focus on a lesson about "your" state, but this activity can be used for the United States, or even Continents of the World.. 

Learning a New Environment (gr. K-2) This activity, which should be introduced at the beginning of the school year, is to orientate students to their surroundings. 

Learning Physical Geography Through Making an Edible Map! (gr. 1-3) The students will learn physical geography about a state or a country by making an edible map. They will use different edible objects to display the different geographical landmarks of that state or country. This lesson is aimed for early elementary students, and is messy and fun!

Looking at Different Cultures (gr. 4-7)

Making a Cartogram(gr. 4-12) This activity connects statistical information with a geographic location. It can be used to connect the theme of location to movement, place, region, and/or human environmental interaction, depending on the statistics used.

Making an Edible Map Into The Shape of Alaska (gr. 1-3) Students will learn the physical features of Alaska by making an edible map. 

Making an Illustrated Dictionary with Geographic Terms (gr.5-8) The purpose of this activity is to acquaint students, through left and right brain activities, with the new geographic terms that will be used during the course of study. If the activity is used in the beginning of the school year, it can be used as an "icebreaker" activity and to promote cooperative learning methods in the classroom. 

Making Globes (gr. 5) The purpose of this lesson is to introduce the students to the world map and globes. 

Map Making (gr. 4-6) A map is a representation of all or part of the surface of the earth on a plane. This activity will acquaint students with some of the problems associated with map making. 

Map Reading (gr. 2-3) This lesson will help students with map reading skills by asking them to locate their home on a city map and participate in related activities. 

Metro Pop Up Map (gr. 5-6) Students will become familiar with the terms "population" and "population density." They will apply these terms to the enrollment of their own school. They will also explore the population of the United States by identifying the top ten metropolitan areas. The students will then create a pop up map using pennies to represent the population of those cities. 

Multicultural Fair (gr. 5-6) This Multicultural Fair is designed to both create an interest in, as well as educate the students involved in the different cultures, and how they can benefit through the knowledge gained through this study. 

Plotting A Hurricane Using Latitude And Longitude (gr. 9-12) 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." 

Space : Your Guide to Location Orientation and Travel (gr: 2-4) The purpose of this lesson is to teach elementary school students the basic knowledge and skills of location orientation and map reading.

States/Capitals (gr. 9) To help the students learn in cooperative way, the geographic locations of each state of the United States. 

State Geography (gr.6-9) This lesson plan teaches students to recognize the different regions of a particular state. 

A Study of Alaska (gr.2-12) The purpose of this unit is to teach students about the state of Alaska. Activities used in the unit will encourage reading, and writing-related-to-reading.

This is a Culminating Activity for a Maps Unit (gr.4-6) The students will be able to use the mileage key of a map, plan a trip and keep within a set amount of miles given by the teacher. 

Timeline(gr.5-8) To clarify the meaning of the Timeline and the concept of B.C. numeration. 

Transportation in Everyday Life (gr 2-3) Transportation is used everyday in every aspect of our lives. It is important that students are aware of these various forms of transportation. Two uses of transportation will be discussed in detail: importing and exporting and the path of a letter through the postal service. The teacher can discuss any other uses that they feel is necessary, such as riding commercial transportation. 

Using the newspaper to learn geography To make geography come alive for students via the newspaper 

We Live In An International Community (gr. 9) The purpose of this activity is to show that students are daily involved in the world of international trade and the world economic picture. 

Where Do You Live? (gr. 3-4) After completing this activity the student should be able to increase his/her awareness of the make-up of the immediate community. 

"Where in the world is......"(gr. 3-4) The students will be able to transfer what they see on the globe to a flat map. They will be familiar with large or major land masses as well as major rivers. The students will be able to point out major countries of the world as well as major cities. 

Where Oh Where (gr. 4-11)

The World on a String (gr. 4-8) This is a total group lesson using the themes of geography to illustrate the interdependence of countries. Group discussion and an activity are used to teach the objective. 

You Can Find It ! (gr. 3-12) Longitude and latitude is difficult for some students to grasp. This activity was designed to give students an opportunity to use longitude and latitude to locate various locations. The following activity works well for students who are learning, studying or reviewing longitude and latitude. 

Some posts about geography at Teachers. Net

Landforms for Second Graders

Projects for USA units

Countries on the Internet

Geography Lesson Plans & Units

Nagano Olympics - A Thematic Unit

Valentine Village

GEOMORPHOLOGY

Minnesota Floor map

"Continent Story"

US States

World Map--Walk through the Continents!

Gila Monsters Meet You at the Airport

Five Themes of Geography Cooperative Group Activity

Culture Boxes

Edible States


Government

The Constitution

 14th Amendment

4th Amendment - Do I have a right to privacy?

4th Amendment: Search & Seizure Lesson Plan

Bill of Rights Day Mini-Unit

Bill of Rights UNIT  

Constitution Day 
 

  U.S. Constitution Thematic Unit

Creating a Bill of Rights

Creating Classroom Constitutions

Right to Privacy?

Rights & Freedoms

School Violence and the Second Amendment

Students' Rights (Role Play)

The 2nd Amendment: The Right to Bear Arms

The 8th Amendment: The Death Penalty

The Bill of Rights 

The Constitution - A Living Document

The Constitution Game: Lesson Plan

The Constitution

The Constitution: Debate on Ratification

The Constitution: Principles & Structures of American Democracy  

The United States Constitution

Candidate Debate (gr. 3-8)To stimulate a political debate based upon issues relevant to third to fifth graders, their parents, and the community. 

Citizenship and the Constitution (gr. 7-12) To identify government officials and resources on a local, state and national level. To demonstrate an understanding of the government on a local, state and national level. 

Civics Internet Learning Activity (gr. 7-10) The Internet has much valuable information for the student and the instructor in Civics. This lesson plan is designed for the student to become familiar with one site with information on our politicians. 

Community Government (gr. 3) In this creative process of introducing community government and its function in the local community, students become active participants in the local government and handle a problem that has the entire community alarmed. 

Comparing Democracy and Republic (gr. 6-8) The republic of Rome and the democracy of Athens provide a good basis for comparison of these two government types which have influenced our own government. 

The Constitution -- Behind Closed Doors (gr. 8, 9, 11) These activities will promote investigation, research and debate. 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. 

The Constitution: Our Plan for Government (gr. 8-9)

The Declaration Versus The Communist Manifesto (gr. 9-12) 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. Most students do not have a good knowledge of either documents but assume they know the differences. This is to clarify the differences. 

Distinguishing Fact and Opinion (gr. 7-12) Students will be able to pick up clues in the wordage of a sentence to determine if it is factual and be able to give reasons for their feelings. It should help students explain the difference between statements of hard fact as found on the front page of a newspaper from that of the editorial page. 

Ethics in American Government (gr. 12) Students analyze the statement "Those who govern in a democracy hold a 'public trust'." This activity provides exploration of ethical dilemmas which might face our present government officials. 

Evaluating Crimes (gr. 9-10) The purpose of this activity is to make students aware there is no concrete consensus as to what is a crime, the seriousness of crimes, or variances of actions that change "noncriminal" behavior to "criminal" behavior. 

The First Day of Class (gr. 5-12) This activity will show students that yes, government is a part of our lives and it does serve many useful functions. This exercise is also a good chance for students to help the teacher set up their own government in the classroom. 

Foreign Policy Simulation (gr. 9-12) 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. 

Forming a Government (gr. 7-12) This unit helps students understand the philosophy of politics and government. It is a good introductory unit to the study of government for any grade level. 

The Founding Fathers (gr. 10-12) To lay the groundwork for understanding the people who were the first colonists and the government they left behind. 

Home-Made Political Parties (gr. 9-12)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. 

How a Bill Becomes a Law (gr. 7-8) 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.

How an Idea Becomes a Law (gr. 6-9) To give students a chance to visualize the step-by-step process of how an idea becomes a law and how involved the process is. 

Impact Of Government On The Individual (gr. 4-12) 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. 

Introduction of Restriction on Freedom of Speech (gr. 10-12) To demonstrate limits to freedom of speech. 

Inviting Candidates to Class (gr. 9-12) 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. The best citizen is the best informed one. 

Justice (gr. 7-12) This lesson will allow students to experience brainstorming and open-ended questioning strategies and research to develop a better understanding of the justice system. 

Justice, Is It Fair? (gr. 5) The purpose of this activity is to provide an unfair situation to introduce the concept of justice. It is a hypothetical problem which students will try to solve through critical thinking skills. 

Know Your Local Government (gr. 3-12) The purpose of this activity is to introduce students to the local government structure and the people in the various power positions. They will see day to day activities that directly affects their lives, and ways people can influence the actions of these people in power. Where they can see day to day progress or activities on behalf of this level of government that affects their lives. 

Law in the Future (gr. 11-12) 1. Students will be able to identify the problems associated with applying the U.S. laws and history to an international situation. 2. Students will draw on legal concepts from law and events in American History to design a legal system for a hypothetical "moon colony."

Mock Congress (gr. 9-12) This activity can be implemented in all grade levels, (9th-12th). The purpose of this activity is to get the students involved in the legislative process of law-making by assuming different roles and understand the relevance of these laws to their lives. 

Paper Clip Game... (gr. 11-12) The paper clip game serves as a good devices for discussing the need for and importance of rules in society. It acts as a springboard for developing a working definition of law and understanding the importance of law. It serves to overcome an often negative perception of law. 

Planning a Government (gr. 9-12) This activity is used during the first week of school in a required high school government class, to help the students begin to become familiar with the nature of government, and with one another. 

The Political Debate... (gr. 9-12)The purpose of this activity is to help students understand the nature of the two-party system in American politics and the importance it serves in transferring the public will into political action. 

Political Polls (gr. 9-12) In a society which surveys everything from soap used to political preference, it is essential that polls are neither feared nor revered. 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. 

The Presidental Campaign Game (gr. 11-12) The purpose of this political game is to give the students experience in working within the political process. The game will also give the students an understanding of the many dimensions of the political process and what is needed to manage a political campaign. 

Reorganizing the Bill of Rights (gr. 8) This lesson is a culminating activity to be used at the end of a unit on the Bill of Rights. It allows my students to become aware of the main ideas and importance of the remaining 16 amendments not covered in class.

Role Of The Government (gr. 9-12) 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. The activity can also serve as an introduction to exploring the foundations of American democracy and government: The Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. 

The Search for a Meaningful Dialectic(gr. 12) 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. A secondary purpose of this activity is to socialize the learning process by introducing cooperative learning in terms of the group investigation model. 

Search & Seizure (gr. 7-12) The purpose of these activities are three-fold. 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. It also leads them into the issues of individual freedoms and society's needs. Finally, it requires the investigation of search and seizure case law. 

Separation Of Powers Between The Three Branches Of Government (gr. 10-12) The purpose of this lesson is to help students understand the concept of the three branches of government. By understanding the development of the these branches the students will better understand the decision making process by which our government lives. 

Supreme Court Decisions and Their Effect On Us (gr. 11-12) 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. 

Supreme Court Decisions on Freedom of Religion (gr. 11) The wide range of cases help students to understand that this "freedom" has limits and bounds and is constantly under attack. 

To Be Or Not To Be Armed (gr. 11-12) 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. The goal is to develop an inquiry relationship between the students and the administration, law enforcement, and/or government officials. 

Topical Discussions (gr. 8-12) 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. 

Town Meeting - Direct Representation (gr. 9-12) Should the town of Twin Cheeks ban motorized rentals on Thome Lake? Students will explore the political, personal, and economic issues involved in making this decision as they assume different roles in this simulation. 

U.S. Constitution and Amendments
(gr. 4-12)The students will begin to learn about our framework for government and examine the actual document ans see its direct impact on their lives.

The U.S. Constitution Power Grab Game (gr. 10-12) To encourage students to comprehend these points of emphasis and relate them to the study of the three branches of our federal government. Several activities are described. The culminating activity is the "Power Grab Game" given before the final test on the Constitution Unit. 

Vocabulary in the Content Area (gr. 9-12) The following activity is an introductory lesson to help students to build meaning or to go beyond the meaning they already have. 

Voting a Privilege Through Registration (gr. 11-12)

The Voting Game (gr. 10-12) Students will be able to classify political parties between the radical-conservative range. Students will identify their interests with a political party. 

Voting Simulation (gr. 4-12) The purpose of this lesson is to help students become aware of the rights and responsibilities of voting. 

We the People (gr. 5-8) Lesson introduces the basic concept of the "natural rights" philosophy. After the students recognize a need for government and rules, the students will be asked to think about the benefits and problems of living in a "state of nature" where there are no laws or government. Comparing their ideas with those of the English philosopher John Locke and how his concepts are used in preparing a proper government that protects the natural rights of an individual. 

Who Gets The Job? (gr. 9-12) 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. 

You and the U.S. Constitution (gr. 4) To understand why people who work and play together need to follow rules; and how these rules are developed. 

Your Own Classroom Court (gr. 9-12) This activity is meant for teachers who would like to allow their students to have a more active role in setting classroom rules, in decision-making, and as a means of settling differences. 


History

Botticelli (gr. 5-12) The purpose of the activity is to review material presented in an instructional unit. It increases student familiarity with the material by requiring that the text and/or lecture notes be used to create identification challenges which are the main means of gaining points. 

Civil Rights/Casualities of Wartime (gr. 9-12) The purposes of this activity are threefold:  1.To demonstrate to the history student that human experience does reveal patterns which modern society can learn from. 2.To develop analytical skills. 3.To develop awareness of the political and economic ramifications of war regardless of military outcome. 

Exploring Our Roots (gr. 7-12) The purpose of this package is to provide sample lessons that incorporate personal family trees into the larger context of community, state, and national histories. 

Famous Person -- Who Am I? (gr. 4-9) The purpose of this activity is to review various historical personalities studied. 

Follow the Drinking Gourd (gr.1) Students will learn about the early days of slavery in the 1840's and how they were led to freedom in the North. 

Following the Path of the Dakota Conflict of 1862 (gr.3-6) Students will understand the importance of the Dakota Conflict of 1862. 

Genealogy Research (gr. 11) The main purpose of this activity is to create interest and personalize history. 

Graphic Organizer (gr. 8-12) 

History Personified (gr. 5-12) This activity is designed to allow each student to look at historical events from a different perspective.

Human needs analysis:.....Holocaust (gr. 7-12) This lesson leads to a greater understanding of the dehumanization that took place during the Holocaust and can be used as
introductory lesson in an English classroom or Social Studies classroom. 

Interviewing of Historical Figures (gr. 5-8) The students will gain knowledge of historical figures using an interviewing technique. 

Read All About It! (gr. 5-12) Students will construct a newspaper that describes local, state, national and international events on the day they were born. 

A Relevant Approach to History (At-Risk learners) (gr. 7-12) The purpose of this exercise is to assist the at-risk learner in gaining a perspective and impact to his environment. The study of individuals and societies will help the student develop an awareness of the differences and likenesses of people as they seek adventure, security and the conquest of their environment. These commonalties may assist the learner in realizing his own potential for impacting his environment, developing an appreciation for the accomplishments of others and securing his own sense of identity and self worth. 

Studying History through Journal Keeping (gr. 8-12) To enable the student to relate to a past event, so that a greater understanding of the past might take place.

A Team Approach To Oral History (gr. 8-12)  The purposes of this project are multiple. One purpose is to involve the students activity in the pursuit of history and to develop an awareness of the interdependence of the various disciplines. The skills acquired in English class can be applied in the exploration of the past. Another purpose of an oral history project is a sense of community that evolves in the students as they begin their quest of a "story." The students also develop an appreciation for the people in the community who are the "living" history. 

Browse for some books about history


Culture & Community

Cultural Acceptance (gr. K-12) Student will be able to experience first hand racial indifference. 

Cultural Spaces (gr.7-12) The primary purpose of this activity is to place the process and traditional practices. 

Developing Relationships with Older People (gr. 2-4) This lesson is designed to help elementary age students develop relationships with older people. 

Looking Into The Mirror (gr. 7-12) The intent of this lesson is to provide various activities that will provide the student with a deeper understanding of relationships and intolerance that has existed in our society both past and present. 

Our Music Festival (gr. 1-3) To investigate the diversity of cultures represented in the class 

SSSH -- Successful, Simple Simulation, Hassle-free (gr. 5)This game has been successful in introducing conflict situations or comparative systems. SSSH has been especially good in introducing intermediate age students to the American Revolutionary War. 

History of the Local Community (gr. 6-12) 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. 

Histroy --- Up Close and Personal (gr. 9-12) Students may not know the history of their own community nor that of their own family. Therefore, this assignment was devised to bring history "up close and personal." (This assignment has been used successfully in Oklahoma History, U.S. History and World History classes.) 

Land Bridge Theory of Migration (gr. 4) The purpose of this activity is to allow students to work within their groups on problem solving skills and coming to a group consensus on an issue while introducing them to the study of early Wyoming history. 

Life on the Mississippi Past and Present (gr. 3) To familiarize students with the importance of the river with its transportation, drinking water, food, commercial purposes, and travel. 

Mini Study of A State(gr. 4-7) The students will learn to do research while comparing their state with one of the states of the U.S. They will be graded on information, drawing and art work, spelling and punctuation and neatness. 

Name That Town (gr. 4-12)

Nevada Trilogy (gr. 7-9) After watching the video "Gone West," The students will reminisce with early emigrant parties and make some of the same decisions they were faced with in travels westward. 

"Promote A City" Posters (gr. 5-7) During a unit on state history this lesson will help students better understand his or her own state and the variety of places to visit close to home. 


U.S. History

American Experience Abroad - An Interview (gr. 10-12)

American Revolution Simulation (gr. 6-9) the student will understand the grievances of the American colonists. 

"A Practical Experiment In Colonization" (gr. 8-12) the purpose of this activity is to provide an opportunity for American History students to gain practical experience in the basic types of challenges that may exist in the establishment of any early colony. 

A Review of American History (gr. 4-8) The purpose of this lesson is to review the importance historical events and time periods of United States history from discovery to the present. Through the use of art, crafts, drama, music, and dance, students can acquire a better understanding of the important contributions of individuals as well as cultural groups, and their impact on U.S. history. This lesson is used to culminate all the units studied during the year. 

A Study of the Portola Expedition - 1769 (gr. 6-9) The purpose of this instruction module is to familiarize students with the period of history of California during the pioneering
Spanish expedition led by Portola, and, more specifically, about the opinions and the reactions of both the Spanish and the Native people to one another. 

Benjamin Franklin (gr. 4) The purpose of this activity is to help students understand that Benjamin Franklin discovered electricity and to make the connection between the discovery of electricity with the advance of technology. 

Civil War Essay Writing (gr. 11-12)

Crossroads: A K-16 American History Curriculum  

Data Gathering :Vietnam (gr. 8-12) This lesson is designed to give students experience in gathering data on an issue, get a feeling for the emotional climate during a stressful time, and to stimulate critical thinking. It is a great device for an inquiry lesson on Vietnam. 

Diversity of Culture in America (gr. 4-7) To have students recognize the diversity of cultures in America 

Family History (gr. 5, 8, & 11) The overall purpose of this assignment is to develop in the students the understanding that America is politically, ethnically, culturally, and economically a "NATION OF IMMIGRANTS". 

Freedom Of The Press (gr. 10) 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. They also gain insight into the varying perspectives of reporters, editors, publishers, and government officials. 

Have minorities Gained Acceptance (gr. 9-12)

"Hello, I Am Deborah Sampson" (gr. 5) The purpose of this activity is to get students more active in the learning process, to have students realize that it is people who have an impact on our history, to have students learn about the people and events in the American Revolution, and have students become aware of the shortage of information written about women during this time period. 

How Man Negotiates Away His Natural Freedom (gr. 11-12)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. 

Let's Tour the White House (gr. 4-6)

One Person's Garbage, Another Person's  . . .? (gr. 5)

Oregon Trail Diary (gr. 5-11) This diary simulation provides dual opportunities for students to write their own historical fiction as well as to gain a deeper understanding of the various landmarks and trails of the Oregon Trail. 

Pioneer Cooking (gr. 1-3) Students will experience cooking and eating common fare of pioneers. 

Political issues and Opinions (gr. 8-12) The purpose of the activity is for students to choose a stance on several political issues. Based on their responses and discussion of "liberal" and "conservative" students will be able to align themselves with a political faction. 

Presidential Interview: A Panel of Presidents (gr. 8) Students of political thought using the forum interview with these political leaders develop an awareness of the role of the Chief Executive in America's complex domestic international relationships. 

Role Playing The Civil War (gr. 5 & 7) The purpose of this unit is to provide a frame for the students to use in evaluating both points of view in the Civil War. 

Reenacting the Great Depression with Slides(gr.10-12) The students will be able to recreate an imagined dialogue based upon a given picture/slide. 

Sectionalism In Early U.S. (gr. 10 & 11) 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. Also to make it possible for them to stop the "I'd never ..." attitude and turn it to a "I can see where I might ...". 

Sequencing of Events (gr. 5-12) The purpose of this activity is to enable students to sequence events and to tie together in visual form a specific period in American History. 

Simulation - Oregon Trail (gr. 5-8)The students will gain knowledge and appreciation of life in the United states in the mid 1800's. 

Symbolic Speech (gr. 9) An activity, showing how the Supreme Court affects our personal freedoms. 

Tea At The White House (gr. 5) This activity is a good one to increase interest in historical characters. United States history is stressed in 5th grade social studies curriculum. This activity helps with knowledge and understanding of the people who affected this history. 

The Civil War -- Emancipation Experience (gr. 10-12) The purpose of this inquiry lesson is to give students an affective experience of the pre and post American Civil War experience on Americans- Blacks and Whites (southerners and northerners). 

The U.S. Civil War (gr. 4) This lesson is intended to help students understand some of the problems America went through before becoming a great nation. It is the hope of the authors that the students will be able to assess the causes of the war and form their own conclusions. 

Using the Internet To Study:"I Have A Dream" (gr. 3-4) In this lesson students will learn more about who MLK was, what many of his contributions to society were and why those contributions were important. 

 

Browse for some books about U.S. history


State History

Built Environment Artifacts Grade: 6 - 12

History of the Local Community Grade: 6 - 12

History: Up Close and Personal  Grade: 9 - 12

Land Bridge Theory of Migration  Grade: 4

Let Me Tell You About My State!  Grade: 4 - 6

Life on the Mississippi: Past and Present  Grade: 3

Mini Study of a State  Grade: 4 - 7

Name That Town  Grade: 4 - 12

Nevada Trilogy  Grade: 7 - 8

Promote a City - Posters  Grade: 5 - 7

State Mottos  Grade: 4 - 5

State Mottos  Grade: 4 - 5

World History and Cultures

Australia  Grade: 2 - 4

Broad Study of Brazil  Grade: 6
Students will be given plenty of texts, maps, etc. on Brazil and through research they will learn about geography, culture, race ,religion, history, and language.

Catherine the Great  Grade: 9 - 10

Causes of World War I  Grade: 7 - 8

Chess: A Game or Rules of Society?  Grade: 7 - 12

Christmas Around the World  Grade: 2 - 5

Crisis in the Balkans  Grade: 10 - 12, Higher education

Cultural Exchange Through Internet Keypals  Grade: 4
Students interact effectively and work cooperatively with the diverse ethnic and cultural groups of our nation and world. 

Cultures and Customs Now and Then  Grade: 2

Experiencing Prejudice and Discrimination  Grade: 6 - 12

Finding Out about the Sudan  Grade: 7 - 8

French Revolution - Integrative Model Lesson Plan  Grade: 10 - 12

Funeral Customs  Grade: 5 - 6

Harry Truman on Trial - Unit Plan  Grade: 11

Investigating Culture Traits  Grade: 5 - 12

Japanese Extended Family  Grade: 1 - 2
Using a flannel board and pre-cut paper dolls, students will engage in an activity that will assist them in understanding the concept of the Japanese extended family.

Japanese Kite Stories  Grade: 1

Making Tortillas  Grade: 4

Medieval Feasts  Grade: 3 - 4
To familiarize students with a social aspect of the Middle Ages, with great feast being the focus of this lesson. 

Napoleon, Emperor of France  Grade: 7 - 8

Planning a Mexican Fiesta in the Classroom  Grade: kindergarten - 4

Story of Sadako and the Art of Origami  Grade: 4 - 6

Timeline  Grade: 5 - 8

Traits of Chivalry  Grade: 10

Using the Internet for Multicultural Education: Learn About a Country Grade: 8 - 12
Using the World Wide Web to learn about countries in the world. Students will be involved in active learning. Students will work as individuals and in groups to complete the web page and share with each other what they have discovered. They could also share this information with the student body and display what they have found in different places of
the school. 

Using the Internet to Explore Issues: Children's Rights  Grade: 6 - 12

War in the Pacific  Grade: 11 - 12

Webbing Around The World  Grade: 3 - 4
Students recognize varying social groupings and institutions, customs, norms, roles, equity, order,and change. Students interact effectively and work cooperatively with the many ethnic and cultural groups of our nation and world. 

What Is a Village?  Grade: 3 - 4

World Diplomacy  Grade: 7 - 8

World War II

Ancient Egypt and Hieroglyphics  Grade: 2

Fun with Hieroglyphics  Grade: 4

Rain Player, a Mayan Story  Grade: 4 - 6

Village Game  Grade: 7 - 10


Multicultural Education

Class Culture  Grade: 9 - 12

Comparing Cultures  Grade: 1 - 5

Create a Holiday  Grade: 6 - 12

Cultures of our Nation  Grade: kindergarten - 4

Ethnic Folk Dancing: Hungary and Romania  Grade: 4 - 5

Exceptional Apples  Grade: 2

Good Apples  Grade: 3 - 6

Looking at Different Cultures  Grade: 4 - 7

Multicultural Community - My Home!  Grade: 6 - 12

Multicultural Fair  Grade: 5 - 6

Our Music Festival  Grade: 1 - 3

Rain  Grade: 2 - 4

Swedish Culture  Grade: 2

Triangles are Not Bad!  Grade: 4 - 9

More Lessons

Costa Rica Lessons

Social Studies:Conflict and Cooperation

Educated Guess

Native American Units

Creating a Colony

Co-operative Group Jeopardy Review

Making Culture Concrete

Multicultural Day/International Market

Economics

Stock Market Game for Educators

Toolbook Lessons

the fifties

another way to teach about American Culture

Create a City

Ancient Greece UNIT

Mesopotamia Unit

Holiday Lesson Plans

Looking at the 1960's via Rock n' Roll

famous historical people

Making a Multicultural Brochure

Ancient Greek Olympics in the Classroom

Sea Pollution

A Trip to Hawaii

Geroge Washington Scavenger Hunt

Flag Song

Cities

Geography

The Rain Forest

Law Enforcement Communications/Radio Procedures

Social Studies

Hiking the Appalachian Trail

Highs / Lows of States

Central America Group Map Project

Play: Be a bud to a Spud

Geography & World War II

American West Theme Ideas

Book In A Couple of Days--Year of Impossible Goodbyes

I Can Choose

Colony Brochure

Make a Farm

Make a Farm

Learning about the School with the Gingerbread Boy

School or Classroom Trivia

Using an Online Magazine

Adventure-Learning

Internet Social Studies Treasure Hunt

Internet Social Studies Treasure Hunt

SOCIAL WORKING

13 colonies

Holiday Lesson Plans

50 States

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Where Monsters Can Grow

Democracy

Silent Jeopardy Review

The Rosetta Stone

Exploring Landforms

Lesson Plans for Ancient History

Deep in the Tombs of Egypt

Creative Classroom Activities for Ancient Egypt

Daily Life in Ancient Greece

Daily Life in Ancient Egypt

social studies

Can you save the Roman Republic?

The Great Art of Storytelling: A Medieval Tale

JFK and MLK Jr.

An Internet Activity for The Introduction Of The Civil War

Another way to review using Jeopardy

Build a Medieval Castle

lesson plan on castles

Circle of Friends

African American History