Students will identify symbols used in the original design of the Great Seal of the United States (1782) and assess how the symbols connect with important American ideas.
Suggested Teaching Instructions
Objectives
Use this activity in the beginning of a unit about the United States Government, American Revolution, or national monuments and buildings. For grades 3-5.
Instructions
Present the activity to the full class. The activity will open zoomed-in on the symbol of the eagle inside the original design of the Great Seal of the United States from 1782. Ask students to identify this symbol and to explain what they think it represents, without revealing what document the symbol comes from. After discussing their ideas, click "Switch View" to reveal the entire document.
Share with students that they are looking at the original design of the Great Seal of the United States, meant to symbolize the new nation. The report that was produced about the Seal is an excellent tool to demonstrate the thinking of the committee members who were appointed to design a seal for the United States.
With the class, discuss the compilation of the symbols inside the Great Seal and why they think these were chosen. Click on the magnifying glass to share further details with students. Following the discussion, show the class a dollar bill and ask them to locate the seal. Ask them where else it may appear. Possible answers may include: treaties, stationary or flags. Refer to the article
Design of the Great Seal of the United States (1782) for more information about the seal and its creator, Charles Thomson.
This activity can also be used an introduction to the
National Monuments Express National Values activity.
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