three-step activities spanning subjects and grades
Part of the Smithsonian Institution’s mission is “Shaping the future by preserving our heritage . . .” Why do you think the Smithsonian chose to display this artifact? Find out more about Charles Lindbergh. Imagine you are your age in 1927, reading about his accomplishment. How do you feel? What dreams does this historic flight inspire…
Explain what you think this political cartoon is trying to say, using details from the illustration to support your conclusions. Jim Crow is the name often used to refer to segregation laws and customs following the U.S. Civil War. Do you think this cartoon is a good argument for or against African American rights? Why? Jump…
This source is listed as a letter with illustrated fable. What is the moral or lesson of the story? Read more about the author and recipient of this letter. What interesting information did you uncover? Write and illustrate your own brief fable that contains a lesson useful for your school or local community. What…
Use a magnifying glass to study the details of this design drawing? What did you learn? What types of skills do you need to have to be an industrial designer? What similar types of skills do you have? Imagine a new industrial product and sketch the design. How will this product advance industry? What other…
Access a larger image of this political cartoon. Do you think this cartoon supports or opposes abolition? Explain your reasoning, pointing to specific details in the source that support your view. Now review the bibliographic record and closely read the summary. Do you think this cartoon supports or opposes abolition? Explain your reasoning, pointing to specific details in…