Objective
By the end of this lesson, Everett will have a deeper understanding of the history and origins of Halloween, including its traditions and how they have evolved over time. He will also engage in fun activities that make learning enjoyable and memorable.
Materials and Prep
- Paper and colored pencils or markers
- Access to a computer or tablet (optional for research)
- Printed images of Halloween symbols (like pumpkins, ghosts, and witches) - you can draw these if needed
- Knowledge of Halloween's origins, including its connection to Samhain
Activities
- Halloween Timeline Creation:
Everett will create a timeline that showcases the history of Halloween, starting from its ancient origins to modern-day celebrations. He can draw pictures or use printed images to represent different points in time.
- Costume Design Challenge:
Everett can design his own Halloween costume that reflects a historical figure or event related to Halloween. He can explain why he chose that costume and what it represents.
- Spooky Story Writing:
Encourage Everett to write a short spooky story that incorporates elements of Halloween history. This could include characters like witches or ghosts and settings like haunted houses or graveyards.
- Halloween Traditions Discussion:
Have a discussion about different Halloween traditions around the world. Everett can research and share what he finds about how Halloween is celebrated in other cultures.
Talking Points
- "Did you know that Halloween has its roots in an ancient festival called Samhain? It was celebrated by the Celts!"
- "Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. People believed that on this night, the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred!"
- "Trick-or-treating comes from an old tradition where people would go door-to-door asking for food in exchange for prayers for the dead. Isn't that interesting?"
- "The pumpkin is a symbol of Halloween because it comes from the tradition of carving turnips into lanterns. When Irish immigrants came to America, they found pumpkins were easier to carve!"
- "Many Halloween traditions today, like wearing costumes and going to parties, come from the desire to ward off evil spirits. What kind of costume would you wear to scare away ghosts?"
- "In Mexico, they celebrate a holiday called Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, which honors deceased loved ones. How do you think this is similar or different from Halloween?"
- "Ghosts and witches are popular Halloween symbols, but they also have stories behind them. Would you like to hear some spooky tales?"
- "Did you know that Halloween is one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States? People spend billions of dollars on costumes, decorations, and candy!"
- "What do you think is the most fun part of Halloween? Is it the candy, the costumes, or maybe the spooky stories?"
- "As we learn about Halloween, let's think about how traditions change and evolve. What do you think Halloween will look like in the future?"