The end of the school year is approaching, which means
students are getting anxious and you’re very busy. If you’re looking for some
quick and easy Memorial Day lessons, we’ve got you covered. Read on for some
quick tips to educate your students with little preparation needed.
While Memorial Day is about honoring those who died while in
service, you can also choose to have students honor soldiers that are still
living. It is important to teach your students about the sacrifices soldiers
have made. This will help your students understand the risks are soldiers are
currently facing.
·
Have students write letters to soldiers
overseas. Letters can also be mailed to veterans. These letters should thank
them for their service and offer encouragement. It’s a great way to get
students thinking about the military and the sacrifices soldiers have made.
·
Give a lesson on veterans that served in your
local community. This can give students a more personal tie to Memorial Day.
You may also ask if any of your students know of anyone who have served or are
currently serving in the military.
·
It’s a bit last minute, but it may be possible
for you to bring in a speaker. Veterans are often willing to discuss their time
abroad. This will be made easier if you know a veteran yourself.
·
If you can’t get a speaker, provide soldier’s
stories in another way. You can do this by reading them to your students,
showing clips and art, and more. Hearing a story of war from a soldier is the
perfect way to make it more real.
·
Provide students with a list of local activities
happening over the weekend. This may include flag ceremonies, local community
celebrations, and special events at local museums.
·
Give a quick lesson on memorials around the
country that honor our soldiers. This not only encourages students to think
about soldier’s sacrifices, but it also may inspire them to travel and see
these places themselves.
·
Create charts or graphs showing the casualties
of different wars. This really puts things into perspective for your students.
These are just a few quick ideas that will hopefully help
you out in the classroom. Many students just see Memorial Day as a long weekend
right before summer vacation starts. It’s important to make sure they know what
the holiday is really about.
