The Washington Monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in Washington, D.C. It stands tall at 555 feet and is a symbol of the nation’s history and democracy. As a teacher, it is essential to help students understand the significance of this monument and its role in American history. Here are some activities that you can use to teach students about the Washington Monument.
1. Historical Background
The first activity that you can use to teach students about the Washington Monument is to provide them with historical background knowledge. Discuss the monument’s history, including its construction, the person it was named after, and its importance.
As an extension, you can have students research more about George Washington, the man who the monument is dedicated to. They can create a timeline of his life or write a biography about him.
2. Virtual Tour
A virtual tour is an excellent way to introduce students to the Washington Monument. There are several virtual tours available online, allowing students to explore the monument in detail. You can use websites like Google Arts and Culture or the National Park Service’s webpage for the monument to show the virtual tour to your students.
Afterward, you can lead a discussion about the different parts of the monument, its design, and its construction.
3. Create a Model
Creating a model is a hands-on activity that can help students understand the structure and layout of the Washington Monument. You can provide students with materials such as cardboard, paper, or clay, and encourage them to create a model of the monument.
It is also a great idea to have students work in groups to design and build a larger model of the monument. Then, they can present their models to the class, explaining how they constructed them.
4. Monument Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt is an exciting way to get students to explore the Washington Monument and learn about its history. You can create a list of items students need to find around the monument, such as specific quotes or images.
As an extension, students can use their smartphone cameras to take pictures of the different items, and then use those pictures to create a presentation about the monument.
5. Washington Monument Crossword Puzzle
A crossword puzzle is an excellent way to reinforce the terminology and concepts associated with the Washington Monument. You can create a crossword puzzle that includes terms like “obelisk,” “George Washington,” “The National Mall,” “national symbol,” and so on.
Conclusion
Teaching students about the Washington Monument is an excellent opportunity to provide them with an understanding of the significance of American history and democracy. By incorporating hands-on and engaging activities, students can learn about the monument in a fun and exciting way. As a teacher, take advantage of the unique opportunities that the monument provides to teach your students about the nation’s cultural heritage.
