As September
11 approaches, I always struggle with how to approach it as an ELA
teacher. I know I don’t have the time to
devote several days to it, but I believe the significance of the day warrants
some time for reflection and discussion, especially for today’s students, for
most of whom the day represents “just another historical event” like December
7, the moon landing or JFK’s assassination.
BUT for many of us who experienced September 11th and its
aftermath, we know that teaching about September 11 is essential for
understanding recent history and fostering empathy and resilience in our
students.
I've put
together three simple, no-prep ideas that can help you engage middle and high
school students in meaningful discussions around this important topic. Whether you have only 15 or 20 minutes, a
full class period or a couple of days, I hope these ideas make it easier for you
to bring the discussion into your classroom.
Combine or condense the ideas to make them work for you.
Idea 1:
Analyze "The Man in the Red Bandana"
- Show the powerful film "The Man in the
Red Bandana"
- Ask students to take notes
centered around this question: What motivates individuals to perform acts
of heroism in times of tragedy?
- Have students complete a journal
(if you use them) or complete a short, written reflection OR host a whole
class or small group discussions.
*If you want
a complete resource with a lesson plan, teacher notes and analysis activity
sheet (with an answer key), CLICK
HERE!
Idea 2: Informational
text Analysis + Interactive Museum Experience
· Assign this article from Actively Learn: “A Visit to the 9/11
Memorial & Museum,” which centers on the question of Why is it important to
remember the 9/11 attacks? The article does a nice job of giving a succinct
review of what happened on 9/11 and shares some of the artifacts displayed and
drives home the importance of the Memorial Museum. Prompts and questions are already there for
students, but you can tweak these to your needs with a teacher’s account.
· Then, have students visit The 9/11 Memorial and Museum site to
complete their Interactive
Museum Experience in the site’s “Learn and Explore from Home” section.
· Ask students to keep notes and be
prepared to discuss their thoughts, emotions, and questions as they
explore. Alternatively, you could as
students to write a written reflection.
Idea 3:
Letter Writing
- Encourage students to write
letters of gratitude and support to first responders, healthcare workers,
or military personnel as a way to honor their service.
- Discuss the importance of
empathy and showing appreciation for those who continue to protect and
serve our communities.
- Consider sending the letters to
local first responder units or organizations as a collective gesture of
gratitude.
I hope these ideas will help create meaningful discussions in
your classroom and honor this very special day. If you commemorate September 11 in your
classroom, I’d love to hear your ideas! Leave a comment below or follow me on Instagram
to join the conversation.
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