United States

This program begins by exploring the development of slavery in America and the conditions under which enslaved people lived and worked.

Millions of enslaved African-American men, women and children lived in the United States less that 200 years ago. During that period of American history, many brave men and women attempted an escape to freedom. Harriet Tubman is perhaps the best known of these American heroes.

This program explores the daily life and customs of enslaved children and adults from colonial times through Emancipation. Through these activities students will come to better understand and appreciate the hardships and plight of African Americans living under the institution of slavery.

Students discover that the United States of America is where we live. They learn about our country's flag and anthem, and they tour our nation's capital, Washington, D.C. They also learn that America is divided into 50 states and that each state has its own capital and is represented by a flag, bird, and flower.

The symbols of our country help us honor our heritage and think of the U.S. as a country of hope, freedom, and friendship. Learn about the history of our country's symbols and what they mean to Americans. Includes the Statue of Liberty, the Liberty Bell, the Bald Eagle, the American Flag, and the Pledge of Allegiance.

This middle school program features the classic film, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939, dir. Frank Capra), for in-depth study. The lessons and activities, with multiple cross-curricular connections, introduce students to what a movie is, the filmmaking process, film Language and elements of style, and the historical and cultural context of the movie Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.

Every line on the U.S. map tells a story. Every border reflects our history -- our struggles for independence, our internal conflicts over states rights and slavery, our westward expansion, and the mastery of our natural resources. We are so familiar with the map of United States, but do we know why our states look the way they do? Every shape on the map tells a great story about our past.