This week in our homeschool we learned about the History of the “Star-Spangled Banner”. I wanted my children to really understand why we are so proud of our National Anthem and the real reason we stand during the National Anthem. My boys are 9, 7 and 2 so I put together a simple study for them. (you can find it below)
During this short lesson they learned:
- Who wrote the “Star- Spangled Banner”
- When it was written
- How and where it was written
- The event that took place that inspired it
My boys now have a better understanding of why it’s so important to us and that we should be proud to stand for our National Anthem.
HERE’S WHAT WE DID AND IT WAS COMPLETELY FREE
First, we watched a 20 min video that we checked out at the Library. I watched the video with them and paused when I felt and asked questions to see if they were comprehending any of it. Of course my 9 year old was and my 7 year old understood most of it.
The video we watched was, “The Rocket’s Red Glare. I was able to check this out at our library for free. You can also find this in a book form. It is very simple and easy to understand. If you can’t find it at your library, or you don’t live near a library, I have posted some cheaper suggestions for reading at the bottom of this post. As too me, this one is a little pricey!
After reading and watching The Rocket’s Red Glare, I had the boys complete two worksheets that I created myself for free. You can do this the same day or break it up into two-three days. Its’ completely up to you!
This first worksheet was copying work. The boys had to copy a part of The Star-Spangled Banner.
Next, I had them create their own word search using only words from the Star-Spangled Banner. I gave them a print out of the Star-Spangled Banner to use. I had them highlight the words they wanted to use and then write them down and fill in their word search. Then they switched papers to see if they could solve each others word search. They really enjoyed this! I completed one too for my oldest!
This was such a simple study of the Star-Spangled Banner. My boys can now tell you who wrote the Star-Spangled Banner, when and where it was written and several other facts. Most importantly, they now understand why it’s so important to Americans. Next time we have to stand for the National Anthem, I know they will understand why and hopefully stand proudly!
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