Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will have a basic understanding of important figures and events in American history, including the significance of the Declaration of Independence and the role of George Washington. The student will also engage in creative activities to reinforce their learning.

Materials and Prep

• Paper
• Colored crayons or markers
• Play dough (optional)
• Access to a comfortable space for storytelling and activities
• Knowledge of the Declaration of Independence and George Washington's life

Activities

• Storytime: The Declaration of Independence - Start by telling the story of the Declaration of Independence. Explain how it was a document that said America wanted to be free from England. Use simple language and make it exciting, like a storybook.

• George Washington Art Project - After the story, have the student draw or color a picture of George Washington. Encourage them to add things they learned about him, like his hat or his horse. If they want, they can even make a play dough figure of him!

• Declaration of Independence Role Play - Pretend to be important people from history! One of you can be George Washington, and the other can be someone else, like Thomas Jefferson. Act out how they might have talked about freedom and being brave.

• Freedom Parade - Create a little parade in your home! Use your drawings and play dough figures as floats. March around and talk about what freedom means to you!

Talking Points

• "The Declaration of Independence is like a big letter that says, 'We want to be free!'"
• "George Washington was the first president of America! He was very brave and helped our country."
• "Freedom means being able to make choices and do what we love!"
• "Can you think of something you would like to do if you were free?"
• "What do you think it was like for the people who signed the Declaration? They were very brave!"