Core Skills Analysis
Social Studies / History
Ivy learned how the National Park Service protects parks and monuments across the United States, which helped her understand an important part of American civic history. She also learned that Yellowstone was the first national park, showing her how the country began setting aside special places to preserve nature and wildlife. In addition, she learned that Devils Tower in Wyoming was named the first national monument, which gave her a clear example of how landmarks can be recognized and protected for their historical and natural importance. Through this activity, Ivy practiced connecting specific places to their roles in U.S. preservation history and government stewardship.
Tips
To extend Ivy’s learning, she could compare Yellowstone and Devils Tower by looking at maps, photographs, and simple fact cards to notice what makes a national park different from a national monument. A family or classroom discussion could explore why governments choose to protect certain places and how that helps people now and in the future. Ivy could also create a labeled poster or mini travel brochure about one protected site, including its name, location, and why it matters. Finally, a short writing activity could ask her to explain in her own words why the National Park Service is important, helping her practice summarizing historical and civic ideas.
Book Recommendations
- National Parks of the U.S.A. by Kate Siber: A beautifully illustrated introduction to many national parks across the United States.
- Our Great Big Backyard by Laura Bush: A picture book that explores the wonder and importance of America’s national parks.
- National Geographic Kids National Parks Guide U.S.A. by Melina Gerosa Bellows: A kid-friendly guide packed with facts and photos about the national parks.
Learning Standards
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.1 — Ivy referred to key details from informational content about the National Park Service, Yellowstone, and Devils Tower.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.2 — She identified the main idea that the National Park Service protects important places in the country.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.4.3 — She learned relationships between events and places by connecting Yellowstone and Devils Tower to their historical significance.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.2 — Ivy could use this knowledge to write an informative paragraph explaining why these sites are protected.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.4.1 — The activity supports discussion and sharing ideas about why national parks and monuments matter.
- CCSS.4.RI.1 — The student used evidence from the activity to answer questions about important U.S. landmarks and preservation.
Try This Next
- Draw a map of the United States and mark Yellowstone and Devils Tower.
- Write 3 quiz questions: What is the National Park Service? Which park was first? Which monument was first?
- Make a T-chart comparing a national park and a national monument.