Your next great Lessn starts here.

Exploring American Symbols: The Lincoln Memorial – What are symbols? – Symbols represent ideas or values – Symbols like the Flag and Bald Eagle – The Flag stands for freedom, Bald Eagle for strength – Today’s focus: The Lincoln Memorial – A special monument for President Abraham Lincoln – Why symbols matter – They help us remember important ideas and people | This slide introduces the concept of symbols and their significance in representing American values and history. Begin by explaining what symbols are and how they can stand for bigger ideas or values. Use familiar examples such as the American Flag, which represents freedom, and the Bald Eagle, symbolizing strength and courage. Transition to today’s focus on the Lincoln Memorial, a monument dedicated to the 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, and discuss its importance as a symbol of unity and equality. Emphasize the role of symbols in helping us remember and honor important ideas and people from our history. Encourage the students to think of other symbols they know and what those symbols mean to them.

Who was Abraham Lincoln? – 16th President of the USA – Abraham Lincoln was a very important leader. – Led the nation during Civil War – He worked to keep the country together. – Issued the Emancipation Proclamation – He helped free many people. – Symbol of freedom and equality | Abraham Lincoln is a key historical figure for second graders to learn about, as he was a president who made significant contributions to our country’s history. He led the United States through one of its most challenging periods, the Civil War, and worked to keep the nation united. Lincoln is also renowned for the Emancipation Proclamation, which was a declaration that freed slaves in Confederate states. His leadership and dedication to equality make him an enduring symbol of American values. When discussing Lincoln, emphasize his role in promoting freedom and how the Lincoln Memorial commemorates his legacy.

Exploring The Lincoln Memorial – Located in Washington, D.C. – Honors President Abraham Lincoln – Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the USA. – A symbol of freedom – Lincoln Memorial reminds us of the freedom we enjoy. – Represents equality for all – It stands for the idea that every person is equal. | This slide introduces the Lincoln Memorial to second-grade students as an important American symbol. Located in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., the memorial is a tribute to Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, who led the country during the Civil War and worked to end slavery. The memorial is not just a statue; it represents the values of freedom and equality that are central to the American identity. When discussing the memorial, emphasize its significance in American history and how it serves as a reminder of the ideals that President Lincoln stood for. Encourage students to think about what freedom and equality mean to them and how symbols like the Lincoln Memorial help to keep these important concepts alive in our society.

Exploring the Lincoln Memorial – Statue of Abraham Lincoln – A large statue of Lincoln sitting in a chair, looking thoughtful – Lincoln’s famous speeches – The Gettysburg Address & his Second Inaugural Address are inscribed – The Reflecting Pool – A long pool of water that reflects the Memorial, beautiful and calm – Symbolism of the Memorial | The Lincoln Memorial is an important American symbol located in Washington, D.C. It honors the 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. The statue inside shows Lincoln seated, representing his thoughtful leadership. Two of his most important speeches are inscribed on the walls, teaching us about history and his vision for America. The Reflecting Pool in front of the memorial offers a place for quiet reflection and adds to the monument’s grandeur. When discussing the Memorial, emphasize its role in commemorating Lincoln’s legacy and the values he stood for, such as unity and freedom. Encourage students to think about what these symbols mean to them and to America.

The Significance of the Lincoln Memorial – A place to think about history – Where Dr. King spoke his dream – Martin Luther King Jr. gave his ‘I Have a Dream’ speech here. – Symbolizes America’s fight for fairness – It stands for the long journey towards equal rights for all. – Represents the nation’s hope for togetherness – It reminds us that America is strongest when we are united. | The Lincoln Memorial is more than just a statue; it’s a place where people can reflect on the past and the progress of American history. It has been a backdrop to many significant events, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, which is a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement. The memorial symbolizes the ongoing American struggle for justice and unity, embodying the ideals of democracy and equality. When discussing this with second graders, emphasize the themes of fairness and togetherness, and how important places like the Lincoln Memorial are in remembering the leaders who have shaped our nation.

Fun Facts About the Lincoln Memorial – 36 columns for states in the Union – Each column stands for a state during Lincoln’s life – Appears on pennies and $5 bills – Look at a penny or $5 bill to see the memorial – Over 6 million visitors yearly – That’s as many people as in some countries! | This slide is meant to engage the students with interesting trivia about the Lincoln Memorial. Explain that the 36 columns represent the states that were part of the USA when President Lincoln was alive. Show them a penny and a $5 bill to illustrate how the memorial is honored on our currency. Highlight the popularity of the Lincoln Memorial by comparing the number of visitors to the population of a country they are familiar with. This will help them appreciate the significance of the monument as a national treasure and symbol of American history.

Class Activity: Building Our Own Lincoln Memorial – Create a mini Lincoln Memorial – Use art supplies to make a model – Understand parts of the memorial – What does each part stand for? – Reflect on the memorial’s meaning – What does this symbol of freedom mean to you? – Share your thoughts with the class | This activity is designed to help students connect with the Lincoln Memorial as an important American symbol. By creating their own mini memorials, students will engage with the monument’s design and consider the significance of its elements, such as the columns and the statue of Abraham Lincoln. Encourage them to think about what the memorial represents, such as freedom and equality. After the building activity, facilitate a discussion where students can express what the Lincoln Memorial means to them personally. This will deepen their understanding of national symbols and their role in American history and culture. Possible activities include drawing, using clay, or assembling pre-cut paper shapes. Ensure that each student has a chance to share and listen to others’ perspectives.