The War on Terror
Students first create a class K-W chart about the Sept. 11 attacks. Then they learn the basic facts about the attacks. Next they examine the U.S. response and rewrite in their own words an excerpt from President Bush’s speech to the nation. Finally they learn about the role of first responders and write a letter to a crew of firefighters.
Modern U.S. Political Parties
Students examine the elephant and donkey political symbols and make a prediction what they represent. Then they compare and contrast the two major political parties. Next they identify leadership qualities. Finally, they research a contemporary political leader and analyze the person’s role and leadership qualities.
Diversity in Government
Students make observations about a collage of portraits of the first 44 Presidents of the United States. Then they study three timelines—Black Americans in Congress, women in Congress, and Hispanic Americans in Congress—and create a chart to highlight achievements. Next they learn about the significance of Barak Obama’s election and read a short biography of him in order to describe his contributions. Finally, they read a quote by Chelsea Clinton about the importance of female role models, and they reflect why it is important to have diverse role models.
The U.S. Economy
Students give a definition or an example of the word economy. Then they explore some of the characteristics of a free enterprise system: producers and consumers, limited government control, private property, supply and demand, and opportunity cost. Next they examine causes of economic growth and explain an example. Finally, they analyze the scenario of a T-shirt printing business and identify economic concepts within the scenario.
Facing Environmental Challenges
Students choose one young hero for the planet to describe. Then they read about an environmental challenge and analyze the causes and effects. Next they research an environmental problem, focusing on causes, effects, and possible solutions. Then they brainstorm possible solutions and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of their three best ideas. Finally they propose a solution and evaluate it.
