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"The Hero", poem about George Washington
"New England Primer"
Washington Memorial
Embroidery of Mount Vernon
Toasts for Independence
"Washington Ball"
"A Sequel to Webster's Elem. Spelling Book: or A Speller & Definer"
"The Illustrated American Biography; Containing Correct Portraits of The Principal Actors in American History"
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Summary and Objective
Students will understand that George Washington was "first in the hearts of his countrymen" and highly regarded by Americans after his death. This reverence for our Founding Father and first president is reflected in many images, documents and practices found in our culture. Students will review a variety of evidence to better understand public sentiment and Washington's emerging heroic status.
Teaching Plan
Step 1.
This activity is designed as an introduction to a longer, more in-depth study of the life of George Washington. Children will form small groups to review the collection of on-line images which reveal the public's interest in and admiration for our first president in the late 1700's to 1800's. They will then explain to the rest of the class what documents or images they saw (artwork, textbook,invitation, etc.)
Step 2.
The teacher will engage students in discussion about: "What do these documents tell us about the public's opinion of George Washington after his death? Why do you think so?"
Step 3.
After introducing a K-W-L chart (What I Know, What I Want to Know, and What I Learned), begin comprehensive study of George Washington's life using biographies (e.g. George Washington: The Man Who Would Not Be King by Stephen Krensky; Meet George Washington by Joan Heilbroner; George Washington by Stewart Graff; George Washington, Father of Our Country: A First Biography by David Adler)) and primary and secondary source documents (see websites below). Encourage children to notice how Washington is portrayed and what his strengths are in his roles as national leader, farmer, general, businessman, etc.
Step 4.
At the end of the George Washington unit, ask students whether or not they think he is a hero. Discuss character traits they feel contributed to his success as a political leader and businessman and endeared him to the American people.
Step 5.
A culminating activity might be to brainstorm a list of ways George Washington's legacy is still being honored today (names of public buildings, states, colleges, street names, currency, etc.).
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