Monday, November 5, 2012

America Rocks!


One of my favorite units to teach is America Rocks.  It encompasses government, a little bit of American history, the Bill of Rights, rights and responsibilities of citizens, the electoral process, and the many, many reasons why I love America.  My students invariably love this unit; I think because it is so relevant to their lives.  My enthusiasm might have a little bit to do with it, too.

As I was planning the unit I knew I didn't want to have a mock election with the real presidential candidates.  When you do that, all you really accomplished is that you learn the political leanings of the parents.  I wanted to teach my students to think, really think, about issues and to vote for the candidate they think would be the best leader.  To that end, I drug out an old favorite, Grace for President and found Duck for President as its compliment.

We studied the two books with an eye toward the qualities of a good leader.  The lesson poster above is one I created as we discussed the qualities of a good leader after we read Grace for President.  The content of the poster is word-for-word from my second graders.  How amazing is that?

You've heard the expression, "From the mouths of babes"?  In this case, it's absolutely true.  Before you go vote tomorrow, you might want to reread our poster.  My students got it absolutely right.  Thanks, Kelly DiPucchio, Grace's creator.

Happy voting, friends.   Whatever the outcome, voting is your sacred duty.  In case you were wondering, Grace Campbell is now our class president.  She beat out Duck almost 2:1.

9 comments:

troutbirder said...

I like it. The rationale, the plan, and the execution. Good job, teach...:)

Suz said...

trunks up

Unknown said...

Hey Relyn, You were the only one to leave a comment, and I really appreciate you commenting! Please email me your address and I would be very happy to send you the book!
smash585@earthlink.net

Hindsfeet said...

Awesome, Relyn....So good to know these kiddos are still learning these important things....

way to go, Girlfriend!

Jeanne said...

Blessings my beautiful friend........
Love Jeanne

Amy said...

I love it! And here's hoping they don't lose it as they grow older . . .

Lisa Gordon said...

So perfect for today, Relyn!

Anonymous said...

I love it. Your second graders have it so together. America's future is looking good.

Marilyn Miller said...

What an amazing teacher you are, Relyn! So glad Grace is now the class president too. Smiling!

Oldies, but Goodies