O, Say Can You See? America's Symbols, Landmarks, and Important Words
What’s inside...
Reveals the stories behind the many symbols, landmarks, and documents that have shaped American history, including Plymouth Rock, the White House, Ellis Island, the flag, Uncle Sam, the National Anthem, and the Pledge of Allegiance. This picture book celebrates and explains America's symbols, landmarks, and important words in lively brief text and bright, humorous illustrations. There are stars-and-stripes T-shirts, Statue of Liberty pencil sharpeners, eagle on money, Uncle Sam Halloween costumes. Symbols are everywhere, but where do they come from? What do they mean? How does something become a symbol? The book offers a celebration of twenty of America's important places, interesting objects, and inspiring words for the youngest Americans. Each symbol is described on a two-page spread that is decorated with fun, bright pastels including Plymouth Rock, the White House, Ellis Island, Mount Rushmore, the flag, the eagle, Uncle Sam, and the national anthem.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes a symbol important to a country?
Which landmark mentioned in the book would you like to visit and why?
How do certain words in the book represent American values?
Can you think of any symbols or landmarks that represent where we live? How do they compare to the ones in the book?
What did you find most interesting about the historical events discussed in the book and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about each symbol or landmark discussed in the book.
Use visuals, like images or videos of the landmarks and symbols, to make the conversation more engaging and relatable.
Relate the symbols and landmarks to personal family stories or local sites that might resonate with your child, enhancing their connection to the material.
Ask your child to pick their favorite symbol or landmark from the book and explain their choice, fostering critical thinking and personal expression.
Invite your child to create their own symbol that represents something important to them, using materials like paper, markers, or digital tools.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding national symbols
Explanation: The book explores various American symbols, landmarks, and terms, explaining their significance and origins.
Real-World Application: Children can recognize and respect national symbols in real life, fostering a sense of national identity and pride.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for history
Explanation: By presenting historical contexts of landmarks and words, this book enriches children's knowledge about America's past.
Real-World Application: Knowing historical contexts can enhance visits to historical sites and participation in national holidays, making them more meaningful.
Example Lesson: Importance of civic education
Explanation: The book introduces concepts of citizenship through the exploration of patriotic words and symbols.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being informed citizens, which can encourage participation in civic duties like voting when they are older.
Example Lesson: Cultural literacy
Explanation: Through exposure to important American words and symbols, children become more culturally literate.
Real-World Application: This literacy allows children to better understand and engage in discussions about American culture and values.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: The book covers a range of symbols and landmarks from various parts of America, showing the diversity within the country.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect the diverse cultures and perspectives that make up their nation.