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Meting Out Justice
Students investigate the murder case of Emmett Till and identify the missing pieces from the case. Through research, they then work to fill in the gaps to create a basis for examining how justice might be served anew in this...
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Getting the Message Across
Students discover the emergence of e-mail as a popular communication tool and explore its impact on society. They consider the advantages and disadvantages of different types of communication tools in various creative contexts.
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Mixed Blessings
Students investigate the recent federal appeals court decision finding the Pledge of Allegiance unconstitutional. They further investigate the notions of constitutionality and separation between church and state by analyzing a patriotic...
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"I Cannot Tell a Lie"
Students examine and debunk historical myths, using the American Revolution as a starting point. They create and play a game of "American History: Fact or Fiction?"
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Must Be Something in the Water
Learners research water pollution and create a class guide to raise the public's awareness about this issue. They write papers analyzing the effectiveness of the guide after it is read by members of the community.
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The Magical Ingredient: FAT
Learners examine how the diet industry is contributing to our frustration over unwanted pounds. They identify the part fat plays in their diets and determine if they live in a food toxic environment.
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To Freeze or Not to Freeze
Young scholars examine the non-verbal elements of a theatrical performance. They read an article, answer discussion questions, conduct Internet research, and stage frozen tableaux based on lines from Shakespeare's works.
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Land of the Rising Guns?
Students discuss the decision after World War II of Japan's to follow a policy of pacifism. After reading an article, they identify the ways Japan is strengthening its military. They watch a video to discover how their Constitution was...
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Correctional Facility Reading
Students complete an independent reading program. In this "Reading for Giving Program" created for students in correctional facilities, students spend time reading independently and responding to the book they read. Please note: Although...
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Backwards Day
Students create ways to do things backwards. For this cross-curriculum lesson, students participate in various backwards activities for an entire day. Students recite the alphabet backwards, spell their names backwards, and read stories...
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Making Text-to-Text Connections
Model for your class how to make text-to-text connections by following the script presented by this resource. No specific texts are offered as examples.
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Energy From Space: The Next Frontier
Students investigate ideas for getting energy from space. In this space-based power lesson, students read articles about ideas for alternatives to fossil fuels. Students define and give examples of vocabulary words. Students answer...
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Creating an Advertisement
Students discuss the benefits of using alternative fuels. They work together to create a one-page advertisment listing these benefits. They share their ad with the class.
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Inside the Vault-Employment Growth in America: What Determines Good Jobs?
Students examine employment growth and the economy. After a teacher lead discussion, students explore types of jobs and their correlation with education level. Job qualifications for both high-paying and low-paying careers are researched.
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Science: Spider Models
First graders create spider models to discover its anatomy. They use construction paper and sequins to make their spiders and use pictures as examples for their models. As an alternative, 1st graders make posters of the spider's parts....
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Fabulous Firsts in African American History
Students study fascinating firsts and facts and answer questions about African American history. They demonstrate abilities to research information about African American history using Internet or library sources. Finally, they use the...
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Sit on It!
Students design and create a chair. Students look at current stool design and come up with a prototype from donated materials. Students then test their chair in various settings.
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To Gol Solar or Not to Go Solar!
Students evaluate the feasibility of installing a photovoltaic system on the roof of a new school being planned for their community. They research the topoc and then each student assumes the role of a specialist having a specific point...
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Window Skills: Make Your Own Wallpaper
Students create wallpaper for their computer screen. In this technology lesson, students use KidPix or Paint to design a picture which will be used as the wallpaper on their computer.
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California Missions Project-Using Publisher
Students create a California Missions magazine that includes a Table of Contents, pictures, and websites. In this culture and history lesson, students research missions and write and create a magazine article about it.
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Three-Way Match: Famous Black Americans
Students research famous African-Americans using an online resource. They complete a three-way matching activity.
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Native American and Greek Myths
Fifth graders identify seven different constellations and explain a myth that accompanies it. As a class, they listen to myths associated with the Greek and Native American cultures. To end the lesson plan, they write their own myth...
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Two by Two Guitars!
Students play three simple chords on guitar while singing American folk songs.
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The Bill of Rights in Times of National Crisis
Students examine the ability of the government to suspend individual rights in times of national crisis. They formulate a constitutional amendment that clearly states if, when, how and by whom the rights of individuals can be suspended.