Happy Veterans Day! Lesson Plan

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Academic Standards

 

Reading Objective:

Children will examine the different ways that veterans show bravery.

 

Social Studies Focus:

veterans, citizenship

 

CCSS:

SL.1.2 Discuss a video; L.1.4 Clarify words and phrases; RI.1.1 Key details; RF.1.3 Decode words; RI.1.4 Vocabulary; RI.1.2 Main idea and details; RI.1.10 Read and discuss first-grade texts, L.1.1 Conventions of English when writing

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  • Watch our video Thank You, Veterans! to give children background on who veterans are and why it’s important to honor them.
  • After watching, ask: “Do you think being in the armed forces is hard work? Why?” (SKILL: SL.1.2 Discuss a video)
  • Play the vocabulary slideshow. This issue’s featured words are veteran, armed forces, train, and courageous. (SKILL: L.1.4 Clarify words and phrases)
  • Read the issue together. 
  • Then project and discuss the reading checkpoint skill sheet. Later, children can fill in their own copies. (SKILL: RI.1.1 Key details)

Kids practice sight words as they collect patriotic stars in this fun game. (SKILL: RF.1.3 Decode words)

  • Kids build vocabulary as they search for veteran-related words with this skill sheet. (SKILL: RI.1.4 Vocabulary)
  • Kids use the magazine to fill in three details connected to the main idea. (SKILL: RI.1.2 Main Idea and details)
Example of a completed skill sheet with an envelope

Objective: Children will write letters to thank veterans for their service.

Materials: letter template, pencil, crayons

  • Create thank-you letters with the template. Children can use the issue for ideas of what to write and draw, or they can create whatever message they like! Any letter is bound to make our troops’ day. Then follow these guidelines:
  • Bundle letters to deployed troops separately from those to veterans, and label accordingly. No envelopes are needed for individual letters.
  • Use children’s first names ONLY. DO include your school’s contact information (address or email). Troops love to write back if time allows! Put all letters and artwork in a large envelope or box and ship to: Operation Gratitude 21100 Lassen St. Chatsworth, CA 91311-4278 (SKILL: L.1.1 Conventions of English when writing)