5th Grade Curriculum: Clues To A Culture Lesson Plan Template (Page 2 of 3) in pdf

2. Build background by asking students, “Do you know how ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ became our

national anthem? Have you heard of Francis Scott Key, and how he ended up writing the lyrics?”

(allow time for discussion)

3. Podcast preview: “Today we’re going to learn more about the history of our national anthem, ‘The

Star-Spangled Banner” and how it became such an important part of our American tradition. Ready?

Let’s go!”

4. Walk!

5. Upon return to the classroom, discuss the main ideas and highlights of the podcast. Main ideas and

highlights might include the following:

“The Star-Spangled Banner” was originally written about a battle in the War of 1812, which

helped establish the U.S. as a strong country. It didn’t become our national anthem until 1931.

The banner, or flag, that Francis Scott Key wrote about was flying over Fort McHenry and let

him and others know that the British had failed in their attack.

The song is often sung at sporting events and other special occasions that allow us to celebrate

our country and show our pride in America.

6. Administer comprehension quiz.

QUESTIONS FOR THOUGHT AND DISCUSSION

1. Enthusiastically ask students how they feel post-walk. Foster a healthy attitude toward exercise by

reminding students that physical activity improves brain function.

2. How do you think Francis Scott Key felt during the battle that he wrote about? How do his words

capture those feelings?

3. Why do you think this particular song was eventually chosen to be our national anthem?

Francis Scott Key writes about the flag waving over, “the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

Why do you think Americans value the freedoms we have in this country? What are some of the

freedoms you enjoy?

4. The podcast discussed some of the behaviors that Americans are expected to follow while the

national anthem is being sung. What is your opinion on clapping and cheering after the anthem is

performed? Explain.

COMPREHENSION QUIZ ANSWER KEY

1. c

2.b

3.b

4.b

5.c

6. c

7. 2,3,1

8.a

9.b

10.b

For additional information on related websites and activities, visit our website:

5th Grade Curriculum: Clues To A Culture Lesson Plan Template Page 2