America’s Field Trip by America250
Students across America are invited to join America250 in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary – the Semiquincentennial – of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. “America’s Field Trip” is an opportunity for students to get involved and ensure their voices are heard by submitting artwork, poems, videos, or essays articulating what America means to them. Top prizes include trips with behind-the-scenes tours of America’s landmarks, such as the Mount Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park!
Grades 3-5: America's Future
Students will explore their role in shaping the future of their community and America at large. They will start by sharing their thoughts on what America means to them and their hopes for the nation’s future. They will also learn about the concept of active citizenship, which dates all the way back to America’s independence. Through readings and discussions, students will discover examples of active citizenship in America’s past and present. Students will then work in groups to create plans to get involved in their community or work toward positive changes as they collaborate to be active citizens who strive to make America the best it can be.
Grades 6-8: Civic Power
Students will explore what it means to be civically engaged and how civic action is tied to American identity. They will brainstorm their own ideas about civic action, investigate misconceptions, and analyze historical examples of civic action from the past to present. Through discussions, station activities, and personal reflection, students will discover the power of civic action and identify ways they can make contributions or improvements to their community.
Grades 9-12: We the People
Students will explore how the Preamble to the United States Constitution outlines opportunities for reflection and civic action. Students will consider the importance of civic action in their school and community, analyze the text of the Preamble, and identify how the goals outlined in the Preamble create a blueprint for civic action today and in the future. Through peer discussion, historical inquiry, and textual analysis, students will explore how the concept of “We the People” empowers them to become engaged community members.