Flag Day

The focus of this lesson is based on the concept that our individuality helps make America a wonderful and diverse nation. Students will gain an appreciation for their own individualities and differences.

You'll need some standard-sized pieces of red, white and blue construction paper, a large sheet of white, butcher-block paper, markers and crayons. Begin the lesson by holding a discussion on the topic of diversity. Discussion questions may include the following:

What is diversity?

What are some differences we have in this classroom? (eye color, hair color, skin color, religion, favorite food/music/sport, etc.)

What kind of diversity can be found in this school? In this city? In this state? In this country?

Next, discuss the concept of diversity as it relates to individuality. Emphasize the point that differences make us who we are. Our differences make us unique and we are going to celebrate them in this classroom.

Distribute one sheet of red, white and blue construction paper to each student. Instruct them to decorate the sheet with words and pictures that reflect their individuality. They may include such things as favorite food/music/sport, hair color, family heritage, language spoken at home, etc.

When the students have finished decorating their sheets of paper, assist them in taping their red, white and blue sheets to the large sheet of white paper to form a large American flag. You may need to use filler sheets to fill in the gaps to make a complete flag. When this happens I usually write the name of the class, year, and key words such as "diversity" and "individuality."

Once the flag is completed, allow each student to come up and share his or her contribution to the flag. Close the lesson by explaining the concept that each person in America contributes to its diversity just like each student's sheet of paper contributed to the American flag.

This lesson may be extended by encouraging the students to interview members of their family to discover the diversity and individuality that exists there as well.

Did you know that Flag Day was started by a 19-year-old teacher in 1885? Use this activity as one to close the school year and celebrate National Flag Day at the same time. Learn more about National Flag Day here.