Objective

By the end of this lesson, the Grade 7 homeschool student will have a better understanding of the United States of America's history and its significance in the world.

Materials and Prep

• Vito VR headset
• Computer or smartphone
• Internet access
• Pen and paper

Prior knowledge required: Basic understanding of the United States of America and its history.

Activities

1. Introduction to Vito VR: Familiarize the student with the Vito VR headset and explain its capabilities. Show them how to use it and navigate through virtual reality experiences.
2. Explore Historical Sites: Using the Vito VR headset and a computer or smartphone, guide the student to explore historically significant sites in the United States, such as the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, or the White House. Encourage them to take notes on what they see and any interesting facts they come across.
3. Virtual Museum Visit: Take the student on a virtual tour of a museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits related to American history. Discuss the importance of preserving and learning from historical objects.
4. Research and Presentation: Assign the student a specific topic related to U.S. history, such as the American Revolution or the Civil Rights Movement. Instruct them to research the topic using online resources and create a short presentation to share with the class or family.

United States of America: Grade 7 Talking Points

• "The United States of America is a diverse country with a rich history that has shaped its present-day society."
• "The American Revolution was a significant event that led to the country's independence from Great Britain and the establishment of a democratic government."
• "The Civil War was a major conflict in U.S. history, primarily fought over the issue of slavery and the preservation of the Union."
• "The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in the United States, including advancements in technology, urbanization, and economic growth."
• "The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination, leading to important changes in laws and societal attitudes."
• "The United States played a crucial role in both World War I and World War II, helping to shape the global balance of power and promoting democracy."
• "The Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union was a period of political tension and rivalry, characterized by the arms race and the threat of nuclear war."
• "The United States has been a leader in technological advancements, with innovations in fields such as space exploration, medicine, and communication."
• "Immigration has played a significant role in shaping the United States, with waves of immigrants contributing to its cultural diversity and economic growth."
• "The United States continues to face challenges and strive for progress in areas such as civil rights, social justice, and environmental sustainability."