American Identity unit contains 6 learning experiences.
Learning Experiences (Lessons) in American Identity Each learning experience takes about 45 minutes to teach in the device-enabled classroom.
American Identity: Vocabulary
Students interact with vocabulary words that they will encounter throughout Unit 9: American Identity.
The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship
Students recall some of the rights guaranteed in the Bill of Rights. Then they categorize rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens, according to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. Next they evaluate a civic participation activity. Finally, they analyze Lincoln’s statement about government “by the people” and explain the importance of civic participation in a democracy.
Your State and Local Governments
Students define the word federal as a refresher. Then they read the Tenth Amendment and create a Venn diagram of the federal and state governments. Next they explore local governments and explain why most Americans have more contact with state and local governments than with the federal government. Finally, students practice finding contact information for public officials at all levels.
Uncle Sam Wants You: National Symbols
Students brainstorm symbols that represent the United States. Then they explore the significance of three symbols: Uncle Sam, the Liberty Bell, and the bald eagle. Next they restate the Pledge of Allegiance in their own words. Finally they choose one of two tasks: to design a new American symbol or to create a poster explaining a recognized symbol to younger children.
The National Ethos
Students predict the significance of the phrase E. Pluribus Unum. Then they examine racial, ethnic, and religious data about the U.S. population. Next they explain how diverse groups have contributed to our American identity. Finally they choose a favorite foreign or ethnic food and research a fact about the group that brought that particular food to the United States.
My American Identity
Students upload a drawing or image that shows something they think is American in their life. Then they do research on their family roots in the United States: when they arrived, where they came from, and what makes their family feel the most American. Next they identify what they are thankful for and what they would change about life in the United States. Finally they create an expression of their American identity.
