Veteran's Day

What do Neil Armstrong, Elvis Presley, and Harriet Tubman have in common? They all once served in the U.S. Armed Forces. To learn more about notable veterans, have students conduct research on a historical figure who served and then create a written report, poster or video presentation.

Due to the fact that both Veteran's Day and Memorial Day honor those who have served our country, students many not fully understand the difference. Have students use a Venn Diagram to fill out what they already know, then conduct a bit of research to add to the diagram to note the similarities and differences between the two days. Younger students can participate in this too with guided help.

Students can be encouraged to think more deeply about Veterans Day as they write an acrostic poem, which is a poem where each of the letters in the word 'veteran' is used to make a new word. They are laid out like this: 

V

E

T

E

R

A

N

Have students think about words that describe the day like 'remembrance' and 'nation.' They can also use words and phrases that describe veterans like 'valiant' and 'example of bravery.'

Students can create a poster or drawing for Veteran's Day. Help or encourage students to include American symbols, words, colors and images. If they know those who have served, their picture could be included. 

Some brainstorming prompts could include: 

• Veterans are ____. (Challenge students to choose a word that describes veterans, like brave or loyal.)

• We celebrate Veterans Day because ____.