This is a Social Studies Unit for 1st Grade. It supports students' comprehension of why national holidays are celebrated (Constitution Day, Independence Day, Martin Luther King, Jr., Memorial Day, Presidents’ Day, etc.)

Students utilize their understanding of local celebrations to create a proposal for a celebration based on their school community. The celebration will focus on what is important to the school. Students learn the decision making process and work in planning groups to determine key aspects of the celebration and write a letter explaining the proposal to an authority figure in the school, such as the school principal. Students use voting as a way to make a group decision.

In this lesson, students participate in activities that will teach and instill a respect for the American flag, the Pledge of Allegiance, Liberty Bell, Statue of Liberty, the bald eagle, and other patriotic symbols.

This inquiry encourages students to expand their study of self and others by deepening their understanding of the role of traditions, holidays, and symbols in establishing cultural identity and unity. The compelling question "What makes holidays special?" reflects an enduring conversation about how and why people engage in ritual and tradition.