Lesson Plans
The Magna Carta: Due Process from King John to the 14th Amendment and Beyond
Students trace both the origins and results of the Magna Carta in the context of the U.S. Constitution and the 14th Amendment, then consider a contemporary case related to law enforcement robots.
Political Parties – Intermediate
Students investigate the two-party system in the United States and analyze partisan priorities, then create political parties that speak to issues affecting young people.
Engine Company 54 lost 15 men, 9/11/01
Through analysis of a collage created post 9/11, students consider how art can help us to process and understand difficult events. After, they collect everyday materials to create a piece of art and an accompanying curator note that reflects on a contemporary event.
Pandemic and Civic Virtue: The American Red Cross and the Influenza Pandemic of 1918
Historical primary sources provide examples of civic virtue–that is, of citizens dedicating themselves to the common welfare, even at the cost of their own interests. By examining such sources, students can reflect on how civic virtue was practiced in the past, and how the concept might apply today.
News, Perspective, Bias – Intermediate
Through the lens of the Boston Massacre, students think critically about presenter bias and how it can influence public perception. Next, they compare and contrast headlines presented by different news outlets and reflect on the importance of recognizing bias and taking multiple perspectives into account when reviewing stories and drawing conclusions about events.
Motor Vehicle Safety
Students analyze safety features on a car design prior to national standards, investigate motor vehicle safety legislation over the years, then consider what safety features you would include on a modern-day motor vehicle.
The Immigrant: Acquisition or Detriment?
Students investigate historical and contemporary pros and cons of immigration and reflect on your own views of the issue.
Concerning the American Girl
Students reflect on women's rights through an examination of "ideals of womanhood" over time.
I Won’t Stand for Segregation
Students analyze primary sources to investigate the story of Sister Rosa, then compare how contemporary culture has characterized her and add your own lyrical tribute.
Politics: Everybody’s Doing It!
Students explore how cartoons have been used historically to comment on politics, then try their hand at political commentary.