Whether we realize it or not we interact with national symbols and memorials on a near daily basis. These memorials do more than just remind us of those depicted in them, however. They also create our collective memory of the place these Americans hold in our nation’s history. In this inquiry stack, students investigate a series of national symbols to identify how they became symbols and what they can tell us about those they represent.
Building Block Stacks 1
Why are some things so special they become national symbols?
Everywhere we go we are surrounded by artifacts that memorialize aspects of United States history and values. In this inquiry, students will use photographs from the Library of Congress to learn about these national symbols, landmarks, and influential Americans and sort them into meaningful categories. Through this process students will recognize and explain the significance […]
Teachers may begin this activity by asking students if they know what a national symbol is. Students are asked to turn and talk with a partner to come…
Building Block Stacks 2
Why are some Americans given a memorial?
In this inquiry, students study popular United States Memorials (Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial) in order to identify historical figures who have impacted our nation. Students will be able to recognize and explain the significance of national symbols and the people who influenced our nation.
Teachers may begin this activity by asking students to recall United States memorials they know of. Create a chart mirroring the graphic organizer stu…
Building Block Stacks 3
Who was the most influential American?
Building on what students know about national symbols and monuments, in this inquiry students will choose one historical figure to investigate the character traits, contributions, fun facts, and opinions about. The goal of this inquiry is for students to recognize and explain the significance of the people who influenced our nation.
Teachers may begin this inquiry by asking students what the word influential means (someone who has the power to make a big change or to inspire other…