Thanksgiving Holiday Lesson Ideas for Middle School Students

Welcome to the season of gratitude and giving thanks! Engaging Thanksgiving activities aren't just for elementary students anymore. Middle school students can join in on the fun! As Thanksgiving approaches, teachers have a unique opportunity to teach their students about the history of the holiday and its significance in American culture. Here are some fun and educational ideas just for you!

Idea #1: Consider teaching your students about the origins of Thanksgiving and the history surrounding the creation of the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States. An easy, no-prep option is The History of Thanksgiving Web Quest.  You can print it out or assign it digitally. All your students need is access to the internet! They'll watch two brief YouTube videos and visit kid-friendly websites to learn about the story of the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people and their celebration of the harvest in 1621. They'll also explore the history of Thanksgiving as a national holiday, including its declaration by President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War and the involvement of presidents like George Washington and Franklin D. Roosevelt in the establishment of the holiday. Finally, students will learn about the debate surrounding the first Thanksgiving and understand common customs and traditions associated with the holiday. At the end, you can ask your students to compare and contrast the origins of Thanksgiving with their own family traditions, if you wish!

Idea #2: Explore the cultural significance of food! Thanksgiving is a holiday that is centered around food. You can teach your students about the cultural significance of food and how different cultures celebrate with food. Encourage your students to share their own family traditions and recipes. Top it off with a fun Thanksgiving feast or party in your classroom if you have the time!

Idea #3: Create a gratitude journal. Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and reflection. Encourage your students to create a gratitude journal where they can write down things they are thankful for. This can be a great way to help them develop a positive mindset and foster a sense of gratitude.

Idea #4: Consider incorporating a service project or community activity into your Thanksgiving lesson plans. Encourage your students to give back to their communities by volunteering at a local food bank or homeless shelter, or by collecting donations for those in need. Alternatively, you can talk to your principal and choose a volunteer activity to improve your school community! This will help your students understand the importance of gratitude and giving back, and encourage them to make a positive impact in their communities.

Thanksgiving is a great opportunity for teachers to engage their students in meaningful discussions about history, culture, and community service. Leave a comment if you tried one of these activities or have a favorite that I didn't mention! 

Reflection Connection: November

I love November because it kicks off the start of the holiday season in my house! Delicious food, more time to spend with friends and family and thinking of all the things I'm thankful for in my life make this season truly special.

Entry 4: What do you feel thankful for in your life?

My Response: At school, I'm most thankful for supportive colleagues who are always ready to collaborate with each other and constantly put students first. At home, I'm thankful for the unconditional love and support of my family. Life isn't always perfect, but the people around me sure do make it fun!

Now it's your turn: What are you most thankful for in your life?

My Favorite Freebies {November Edition}

 

Finally! The holiday season is here! While some people start the celebrating after Thanksgiving, I like to start early. I mean, who doesn't love family gatherings and good food?!

This year, I feel thankful for so many things: my family, my friends, my amazing school, and my new experience on Teachers Pay Teachers this year, just to name a few!

In this season of thanks, I am also thankful for teachers who offer fantastic freebies that we can use in and outside the classroom. Check out a few of my Favorite November Freebies below and click on the links below the pictures to enjoy them for yourself!

Thanksgiving How To Writing Pack

So...many...options! A 32 page freebie?! You rock, Learning is Something to Treasure!

Gobbling Up Descriptive Words

I love that Blair Turner developed a freebie to help students practice creating descriptive words. She made learning a key concept fun!

Thanksgiving Day Writing Activity

So darn cute!! Thanks, Ms. Makinson

 

 

Thanksgiving Banners

Lindsay Jervis...fueling my obsession with banners and pendants again! So many happy feels right now! Thanks, girl!

 

 

My Favorite Dish Thanksgiving Bar Graph

The Schoolhouse Divas are experts at making math fun...and that's a tall order! Also, the turkey on the cover is making me soooo hungry for Thanksgiving dinner right now.

 

Until next time...Happy Teaching!