Format
1. Start with why we observe Memorial Day.
2. Discuss the meaning of memorials and symbolism.
3. Look at war memorials on the National Mall.
4. Have students explore the symbols.
Objectives
The participant will:
--give one reason why Americans observe Memorial Day
--name two memorials on the National Mall
--identify two symbols found on a memorial
Standards Alignment
National Standards
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.1.SL.3 -- Ask and answer questions about what a speaker says in order to gather additional information or clarify something that is not understood.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.2.SL.3 -- Ask and answer questions about what a speaker says in order to clarify comprehension, gather additional information, or deepen understanding of a topic or issue.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.3.SL.3 -- Ask and answer questions about information from a speaker, offering appropriate elaboration and detail.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.4.SL.3 -- Identify the reasons and evidence a speaker provides to support particular points.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.5.SL.3 -- Summarize the points a speaker makes and explain how each claim is supported by reasons and evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.6.SL.3 -- Delineate a speaker’s argument and specific claims, distinguishing claims that are supported by reasons and evidence from claims that are not.N/A
State Standards
Virginia Standards
Social Studies
2.1.a identifying artifacts and primary and secondary sources to understand events in American history
2.5 The student will describe why US citizens celebrate major holidays, including c) Memorial Day and g) Veterans Day
DC Standards
Social Studies
1.2 Students identify and describe the symbols, icons, songs, and traditions of the United States that exemplify cherished ideals and provide continuity and a sense of community across time.
1. Understand when and why we celebrate Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, DC Emancipation Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, and Independence Day
2.4 Students understand the importance of individual action and character, and they explain, from examining biographies, how people who have acted righteously have made a difference in other lives' and have achieved the status of heroes in the remote and recent past.
3.1.3 Identify and locate major monuments and historical sites in and around Washington, D.C.