During the 1800s the United States was expanding westward; land was there for the taking.  Kids explore how some early photographers used their photography to influenced the US Congress to save areas like Mirror Lake. They...

Students identify musical sites that are worthy of being included as units of the National Parks System. They anthologize American music from primitive times to today.

Students identify American geography by participating in a national parks activity. In this road trip lesson, students view the Ken Burns documentary "National Parks" and identify the importance of automobiles in the park system....

Students explore world geography by viewing a documentary film in class. In this national parks lesson, students view the Ken Burns documentary about the subject and identify the contributions of individuals in support of the parks...

Students explore Earth science by participating in a pollution activity. In this water infiltration lesson, students utilize a water sprayer, food coloring and slices of bread to simulate how pollution can spread into our drinking water...

Learners use art and images analyze the Civil War. In this lesson on the Shaw Memorial, students engage in 3 activities, discussion, and art analysis to better comprehend the events of the Civil War. This lesson includes web resources,...

Students write persuasive speeches to recruit soldiers for a Civil War company. In this Civil War U.S. history and writing activity, students work in groups to create a recruiting poster and write a speech to persuade soldiers to join...

Pupils use maps, readings and photos to research the construction and effects of the Ohio and Erie Canals. They compare the region's economy before and after the canal's construction and analyze transportation routes in their own...

Students explore U.S. history by creating a computer presentation in class. In this Civil War battle lesson, students read assigned text about the Battle of Stones River and research individual generals from the battles. Students utilize...

Young scholars explore U.S. history by listening to musical pieces in class. In this Civil War era activity, students discuss the types of musical instruments that were available to soldiers during the war and the themes of their songs....

Students explore U.S. history by researching disease in class. In this Civil War injury lesson plan, students identify the different causes of death most soldiers faced while fighting in the war. Students role-play and write a diary...

Learners use photos, maps and reading materials to examine the history and role of Mount Auburn Cemetery. They analyze the landscape of the cemetery, consider how it affects visitor's emotions and feelings and then design an original...

Fourth graders examine their own values and beliefs about archaeological site protection and evaluate possible actions they might take regarding site and artifact protection.

This online exhibit features the works of landscape artist Thomas Moran, whose paintings inspired the creation of Yellowstone Park in 1916. A gallery of images of his paintings is included.

Read about the origins of jazz music as it began in New Orleans before 1895. With its unique history and culture, New Orleans provided many opportunities for the development of jazz to thrive and grow.

Dive into the rich history of jazz as it progressed in New Orleans. Focusing on the time from 1895 to 1927, this site highlights key musicians and influences that helped shape this American artform.

Dozens of audio clips of New Orleans-style jazz music from different time periods: 1920s and 1930s, 1940s and 1950s, and the year 2000.

Discover more about the life of jazz pioneer Sidney Bechet with this well written site. With his colorful personality and unique style, you will appreciate the contributions this musician had toward the development of jazz.

A major figure in jazz, Louis Armstrong is considered the father of jazz. Learn about his early days in New Orleans and how he developed into one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.

One of the early cornet players, Buddy Bolden was a key figure in the early development of jazz. Read about his life and career in this well written site.

At the end of this lesson, students will reflect on and express concepts and ideas associated with unfamiliar images and art styles. They will increase visual awareness and appreciation for a variety of styles, subject matter, and...