Table Talk

Table Talk

The School District of Lee County Curriculum Department, in conjunction with the Florida Department of Education, is actively working within our schools to build strong Civic literacy and historical awareness within our students. With that in mind, we acknowledge that one of the most efficient ways to build Civic literacy and historical awareness is through discussion. The best opportunities to discuss these topics revolve around the dinner table, where students share what they have learned, as well as their opinions related to those topics, with their parents and siblings in a safe and supportive environment. Below you will find grade-level appropriate activities and discussion questions that could be used to help promote civic literacy and historical awareness in the home that relate to each of our federal or state-mandated instructional days and observations.

September: American Founders' Month

” American Founders’ Month is celebrated in recognition of the contributions of the Founders of the United States.

Grades K - 5

Who were the Founders?

  • Being the first to do anything can be scary. Discuss the courage required by America’s Founding Fathers to take the actions necessary to create a new nation.
  • There are a variety of ways that we acknowledge and honor the contributions and accomplishments of extraordinary people. What are some examples of ways that we honor our Founding Fathers?
  • Brainstorm some things that the Founding Fathers might have had to do when they made the decision to break away from Great Britain and become a new nation.

Resources

Grades 6 - 8

Founding Actions

  • America’s road to independence was a long and complex issue. What are some of the most important actions that America’s Founders (or its citizens) participated in along that journey?
  • The Declaration of Independence included a list of grievances that the Founders had with their British government. Later, the Founders would be tasked with building their own government from scratch. Do you predict that they will address many of the grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence in their new government? Why or why not?

Resources

Grades 9 - 12

The Legacy of America’s Founders

  • Names like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, James Madison, and many more are still prominent in the United States today. Reflect on those names, and others, discussing their legacy, impacts, and accomplishments.
  • The actions of America’s Founding Fathers extend beyond the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution, encompassing the establishment of the U.S. Constitution. How do their actions continue to impact us today (both governmentally and personally)?

Resources

Labor Day - First Monday in September

Dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

Grades K - 5

America’s Workforce

  • American prosperity is heavily impacted by the jobs that everyday Americans do. What types of jobs do you see daily that allow us to live our best lives?
  • If appropriate, talk to your child about your job/profession. Discuss with them how the work you do impacts the lives of others, either directly or indirectly.

Resources

Grades 6 - 8

Careers and Contributions

  • Adults use jobs to earn income to pay for goods and services. When selecting a job or profession, what should Americans consider?
  • Every worker has their story, share your journey to your job or career with your child (if appropriate). What were the educational, certification, apprenticeship, internship, or development paths that you needed to do your job? What does success look like at your job?
  • Having goals and aspirations is a heavy motivator for our youth. Ask your child what is important to them when selecting a potential job, ask about what skills they possess, what their interests are, and how they could turn those into a profession. See if you can help guide your student to a potential dream job or a list of dream jobs.

Resources

Grades 9 - 12

Working Conditions, Pay, and Regulations

  • Through much of America’s early history, working conditions were far from ideal within many jobs/professions. Eventually, unions, governmental agencies, and businesses worked to rectify this issue. What are some examples of unsafe practices, and modern examples of how they are rectified?
  • Most jobs/professions have some examples of regulations, practices, or procedures that protect workers and consumers. Discuss some examples of what those might be at your place of work.
  • Financial compensation for workers has changed over time. Measures like minimum wage, overtime, and paid leave became common. How have those measures changed the lives of most Americans?

Resources

Patriot Day and 9/11 Commemoration - September 11th

On 9/11, schools will hold remembrance ceremonies, beginning with moments of silence starting at 8:46 EDT to remember the victims of the terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001. In addition, we honor the courage and selflessness of our first responders, service members, and fellow citizens who served our Nation and its people in our hour of greatest need.

Grades K - 5

Who are heroes?

  • On September 11th, 2001, many first responders demonstrated what it takes to be a real-life hero. What are the characteristics of a hero?
  • First responders serve their communities every day. How do first responders help people every day, not just during emergencies like 9/11? Can you think of a time when someone helped you or your community like that?
  • If you were to say “thank you” to a first responder, what would you want to say or do to show your appreciation?

Resources

Grades 6 - 8

The Events of September 11th, 2001

  • September 11th, 2001, was a significant day in America and around the world. What do you already know about what happened on September 11, 2001? This would be a good opportunity to share personal stories from those who experienced that day.
  • September 11th, 2001, was an event that impacted people across the country and across the world. How do you think people felt in New York City and across the country on that day?
  • September 11th, 2001, presented unprecedented challenges and opportunities for first responders at the site of the attacks. What do you think made the first responders and everyday citizens who helped that day heroic?

Resources

Grades 9 - 12

The Impacts of September 11th, 2001

  • It is frequently said that there was a pre-9/11 and post 9/11 America and world. Why do you think the events of 9/11 had such a big impact on the United States and the world? How did 9/11 change the way people travel, especially through airports?
  • On this day of remembrance and commemoration, why is it important for us to remember 9/11 each year, even if we weren’t alive when it happened? What lessons do you think we can learn from how people came together after 9/11?

Resources

U.S. Constitution Day - September 17th

United States Public Law requires that public educational institutions receiving federal funds teach about the Constitution on September 17 each year.

Grades K - 5

What is the Constitution?

  • Have you ever heard of the Constitution before? What do you think it is?
  • Why do you think our country needs a set of rules like the Constitution?
  • What rules do we follow at school or at home? How are those like the Constitution?

Resources

Grades 6 - 8

The Bill of Rights and Changing the Constitution

  • What do you know about the Bill of Rights? Why do you think these first 10 amendments were added to the Constitution? Which right in the Bill of Rights do you think is the most important? Why?
  • Why do you think the Founding Fathers allowed the Constitution to be changed through amendments? Can you think of a time when it might be necessary to change a law or rule? How does that relate to changing the Constitution?
  • The Constitution has been amended 27 times. Why do you think it’s so hard to change it?

Resources

Grades 9 - 12

Impacts of the Constitution

  • What parts of the Constitution do you think have the biggest impact on American society today? Why? How do you think the Constitution affects your life today, even as a teenager?
  • How has the Constitution influenced other countries or global ideas about democracy?
  • Why do you think it’s important for citizens, especially young people, to understand the Constitution today?

Resources

Celebrate Freedom Week - Last Full Week of September

Celebrate Freedom Week must include at least 3 hours of appropriate instruction in each social studies class, as determined by each school district. This instruction shall include an in-depth study of the intent, meaning, and importance of the Declaration of Independence. At the beginning of each school day or in homeroom, during Celebrate Freedom Week, public school principals and teachers shall conduct an oral recitation by students of the Preamble to the Declaration of Independence.

Grades K - 5

What is the Declaration of Independence?

  • The Declaration of Independence is one of the most important documents in American history. Have you ever heard of the Declaration of Independence? What do you think it means to be “independent”?
  • Writing the Declaration of Independence was a major decision made by America’s Founding Fathers. Why do you think the American colonies wanted to be independent from Great Britain? If you were writing your own Declaration of Independence, what would you want to be free to do or say?
  • During Celebrate Freedom Week, we celebrate the decision of the Founding Fathers to write such an impactful document. How do you think the Declaration of Independence helped create the United States? Why is it important to remember and celebrate the Declaration of Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week?

Resources

Grades 6 - 8

The Writing of the Declaration of Independence

  • A long list of abuses and grievances was included in the Declaration of Independence. Why do you think the American colonies felt the need to write the Declaration of Independence? What do you think were the biggest complaints the colonists had about British rule?
  • Thomas Jefferson would later go on to be President of the United States, but his most noted accomplishment is that he is given primary credit for drafting the Declaration of Independence. Why was Thomas Jefferson chosen to write the first draft? What qualities do you think a writer of such an important document should have?
  • The Declaration says people have rights to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” What do those words mean to you today?
  • John Hancock famously signed his name on the Declaration of Independence larger than would be the norm. How do you think the writers of the Declaration felt as they signed their names? Why was that such a risky thing to do?

Resources

Grades 9 - 12

The Impacts of the Declaration of Independence

  • Nearly 250 years after its signing, we continue to celebrate the Declaration of Independence. How do you think the Declaration of Independence changed the course of American history and world history? Do you think the United States has always lived up to the ideals stated in the Declaration? Why or why not?
  • The Declaration of Independence is very closely associated with the American identity and patriotism. It also served as an inspiration to the world. What role do you think the Declaration plays in shaping American identity and patriotism? How did the Declaration of Independence inspire other countries or movements around the world?
  • The ideas expressed in the Declaration of Independence serve as a foundation for the American identity. In what ways do the ideas in the Declaration—like equality and the right to pursue happiness—still influence American society today? Why is it important for young people like you to understand the Declaration’s impact during Celebrate Freedom Week?

Resources

Hispanic Heritage Month - September 15th through October 15th

National Hispanic Heritage Month traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans as we celebrate heritage rooted in all Latin American countries.

Grades K - 5

Hispanic and Latin American Roots

  • The Hispanic and Latin American roots in the United States are strong. What do you know about Hispanic or Latin American cultures? Have you met anyone from those backgrounds? Can you name some foods, music, or holidays that come from Hispanic or Latin American cultures?
  • America is a melting pot of many different cultures and heritages. Why do you think it’s important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month? What are some traditions or stories you’d like to learn more about from Hispanic or Latin American cultures? How can we show respect and appreciation for people from different cultures?

Resources

Grades 6 - 8

Spotlighting Prominent Hispanic and Latino Americans

  • There are many prominent Hispanic and Latino American icons whose contributions have shaped our nation and world. Can you name any Hispanic or Latino Americans who have made important contributions to the U.S.? What do you know about them? Why do you think it’s important to learn about the achievements of Hispanic and Latino Americans?
  • Hispanic and Latino Americans faced challenges while contributing to American society. How have Hispanic and Latino Americans contributed to fields like science, arts, sports, or politics? Can you think of examples? What challenges do you think some Hispanic and Latino Americans have faced while trying to achieve their goals? Which Hispanic or Latino American figure inspires you the most and why?
  • How can learning about these prominent figures help us appreciate Hispanic Heritage Month more? If you could interview a Hispanic or Latino American role model, what questions would you ask them?

Resources

Grades 9 - 12

America: “The Melting Pot” and its Hispanic and Latino Influences

  • America is frequently referred to as a “Melting Pot”. What does the phrase “America is a melting pot” mean to you? How do Hispanic and Latino cultures contribute to this idea? In what ways have Hispanic and Latino communities influenced American food, music, art, and language? Can you give examples?
  • Hispanic and Latino Americans faced challenges while contributing to American society. How have Hispanic and Latino immigrants shaped American history and society? What challenges might Hispanic and Latino Americans face while preserving their cultural identity within the broader American culture?
  • Can you think of ways that learning about Hispanic and Latino cultures can enrich our understanding of what it means to be American?

Resources