
Primary Source Activities: Democratic and Republican Party Mascot Toys
Author: Patricia Vazquez
Grade(s): 5
Description
Lesson summary:
To analyze the toys listed under "Resources" to learn more about primary sources and how to authenticate them.
Lesson:
This activity consists of the following parts:
- Students write about how they could conduct research on American history and culture
- Discuss as a group how material culture can "tell a story" about history or reflect a culture
- Show students items listed under "Resources," and decide how they could authenticate these items
Share the story behind the items from Ohio Memory - Discuss how students could research the description of the item provided on Ohio Memory.
Standards
- Government, 3-5, Benchmark A: Identify the responsibilities of the branches of the U.S. government and explain why they are necessary.
- Indicator: Grade 5, GLI 2. Explain the essential characteristics of American democracy including: b. All citizens have the right and responsibility to vote and influence the decisions of the government.

