Respect for and Understanding of Civic Symbols

Summary

Students will learn about how US citizens display their loyalty to the country and how symbols help us remember our responsibilities as citizens.

Enduring Understanding:
Students will know:

1. Patriotic symbols and traditions of the U.S.
2. How our symbols and traditions remind us of our responsibilities as citizens

Materials

Student Prior Knowledge

The name and general boundary of their town and/or county.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students will answer the following questions:

1. How do US citizens display their loyalty to the country?
2. How do symbols help us remember our responsibilities as citizens?

Instructional Procedures

• After saying the Pledge of Allegiance, students will listen to the clip of Red Skelton.
• Discuss with a partner what some of the unfamiliar words really mean (indivisible, justice, liberty, nation, republic, allegiance).
• Discuss flag etiquette: Respectfully disposing of it when it is worn, flying at half-mast, how to hang it, etc.
• Discuss how our actions show our allegiance.
• Find and describe other national symbols, people, and phrases found on coins and bills.

Extensions

1. Sing and discuss the meanings found in The Star Spangled Banner.
2. Expose the students to other pledges, flags, anthems, colors, mascots, and oaths, such as those used by the schools, Boy/Girl Scouts of America, Utah, or other nations.