Teaching Study Skills for Students in the Classroom

The next time you announce an upcoming test and give time to prepare for it, take a look around the room. You may see several of your students look completely overwhelmed. Some read one page of their study guide repeatedly. Others are kicking back, planning to study everything the night before. A few honestly do not know what studying even looks like. Teaching study skills for students can turn that uncertainty into a clear, manageable plan. When you use direct instruction and practice, your students can discover strategies they can actually use.

Why We Need to Teach Study Skills for Students

We often tell our students to study. But do we explain what that word means? To us, studying may include reviewing notes, highlighting questions, or organizing information. We have years of experience that have defined this word for us. But our students, on the other hand, do not. Students may hear the same direction and be left wondering what to do. To help them develop strong study skills, we need to teach them, just like we would any other topic. 

Study skills for students work best when we teach them before a major assessment. Choose an upcoming quiz or test with several days available for practice. This gives your students time to try each strategy with real class content. They can then decide which approaches help them notice gaps and remember information.

Ready to learn more about teaching study skills in the classroom? Let's dive in!

1. Teach Students That Studying is a Process 

We know what often happens when our students wait until the night before a test. They try to review everything at once and quickly become frustrated. Help students break the cycle of last-minute cram sessions by showing them that studying is a process. Then show them how to create a schedule of short study sessions that feels more manageable and gives them time to review over several days.

Start by working backward from the assessment date as a class. Place the date on the board, then identify several possible study days. Ask your students to consider homework, practices, family plans, and other responsibilities. They can then choose short review periods that fit their actual schedules.

I remember when a student had an "ah-ha" moment during this lesson. They said something along the lines of 'Oooohhhhhh! This is why you tell us we have a test next Friday.' I realized that I had been guilty of statements like this without explaining why I was giving them advance notice.

2. Teach Students Why Reviewing Notes Matters

For many students, the idea of going back and reviewing notes is a foreign concept. To them, notes are just something we do while sitting in class.  They aren't really sure why, but this is what they have been taught to do. But. . . they have never been taught that the real value of notes comes in reviewing them later. Once we help our students understand that reviewing the notes can help us remember, we then need to teach them how to review their notes. 

We have all watched our students reread the same page without actually processing it. They may reach the bottom and remember almost nothing. Show your students that reviewing notes requires them to pause, question, and mark important information. This gives them something specific to do instead of simply reading the page again.

Model the process with one page of notes from your current unit. Read a small section, then pause beside an important idea. You might say, "I remember this person, but I cannot explain why this event mattered." Mark that spot and show your students how it becomes a question for later.

Build this skill into the final few minutes of class each day. Give them three minutes to reread, mark one key point, and circle one question. Then, your students can ask you for help before a misunderstanding grows. This short routine also makes test preparation feel less overwhelming later.

3. Teach Them About Color Coding Their Notes

We've known for years that color can help with attention, memory, and recall. In fact, the scientific evidence of color and how it affects memory and learning has been around for many years. That makes color coding more than just a way to make notes look nice. Let's teach them why and how to use it effectively.

This strategy works really well with the reviewing notes strategy above.  I like to begin by encouraging students to write their notes by hand instead of typing. Handwriting naturally slows the process and gives your students time to consider each idea. Then I like to show them how to add color to their notes to make them even stronger.

When students use color with a purpose, it can help them organize information and find important details more easily. I suggest that you teach students to color-code their notes using different colors for people, events, vocabulary, definitions, causes, and effects. When they use the same colors on all their notes, they can quickly identify an important person from a vocabulary word in social studies, science, or math class. 

Make sure to explain that every color needs a clear job connected to the content. Then show them what this looks like.  Show them how to color only the most important details, not everything.  I like to show an example of notes color-coded by key bits of information and an example where the entire page has been given color. This really helps them see that coloring everything is not as useful as focusing on the most important facts and details. 

4. The Student Becomes the Teacher

Another simple strategy you can share with your students is to have them teach the topic to someone else. Using their notes, students can verbally tell another person, or even the family dog, about the topic. Your students may laugh when you suggest teaching their notes to a pet, but that is part of the fun. The listener does not need to understand the topic or ask difficult questions. Your students simply need to explain the information without reading every word. 

When they do this, they will quickly notice where their explanations become a little shaky. They will realize what areas they solidly understand, and what areas they rely a little too heavily on their notes. The key is having them put the information into their own words. This process quickly reveals which ideas your students understand and which ones remain unclear.

Demonstrate this study skill for students with a familiar topic. Explain one concept without reading directly from your notes. When you get stuck, show your students how to return to the page and check the missing detail. This helps them see that forgetting is part of the learning process, not something to be embarrassed about.

Next, place your students in pairs for a short practice session. Give each partner one minute to explain a person, event, process, or vocabulary term. The listener can ask, "Why does that matter?" or "What happened next?" After the exercise, ask students to identify what information they felt strongly about and what needed more review. 

5. Teach Different Ways to Organize Information

Sometimes students know lots of facts, but they don't really see how they fit together. That's where this study skills strategy comes into play. Organizing information helps your students see how separate details connect. There are a variety of ways students can organize information: lists, outlines, timelines, mind maps, and graphic organizers. Each format serves a different purpose, so your students might need help choosing one. Make sure to show students what type of information works best with each format. 

For example, if you are studying the order of key battles in World War II, you would want to use a timeline. Show students how a timeline helps us sequence events.  On the other hand, if you are reviewing the causes of the Civil War, a mind map might be a stronger tool to use. By introducing your students to a variety of organizing methods, you equip them with strategies to help them better understand what they have learned.

My Step-by-Step Lesson for Teaching Study Skills

If you are ready to teach study skills to your students, my Study Skills Doodle Notes is the perfect place to start. This resource includes everything you need to teach these strategies to your students and to give them explicit practice with each strategy. 

Begin by introducing each study skill, one at a time. The PowerPoint guides your students through the notes as a class. Students can use the coordinated Doodle Notes page as they learn.

Pause after each strategy to model what it looks like. Don't just show students, but tell them what you are thinking, too. I like to use an example from the current topic we are studying because the information is fresh in their minds. Then ask students where they could use that strategy during the week. This type of discussion helps them internalize the strategy and see how it can play out in their day to day life. 

Next up, give students a chance to practice these study skills without a test grade being on the line. You can teach one strategy then practice it, or teach all the strategies and then rotate through the stations. Allow 10 to 15 minutes at each station for your students to really try and experience each strategy.

Finish up with a discussion of the study skill strategy. Ask them what they like about it, and what they didn't like. Ask them how they found the strategy helpful. And. . . ask them how they might make small changes to the strategy to make it work better for them. This is the part of the process that really helps students see that the strategies are there to support them, not become another rigid procedure they have to repeat.

Help Your Students Put These Study Skills Into Practice

Our students do not automatically know how to prepare for a test, and we can't assume that someone else taught them.  That's why teaching study skills can be one of the important lessons you teach all year. Students need clear examples, time to practice, and chances to reflect. My Social Studies Study Skills Doodle Notes set brings those pieces together. It helps you teach preparation as a process instead of another vague direction. Whether you use this as a beginning-of-the-year lesson or before a unit test, your students will walk away with a new skill that goes far beyond your classroom.

Explore my Social Studies Study Skills Doodle Notes to help your students practice strategies with structured notes and hands-on activities. Most importantly, your students learn what studying can actually look like.

Save for Later

Save this post when your students need a clearer approach to test preparation. These study skills for students can help you turn "Go study" into practical steps they understand.

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Back to School Activities for Older Students

Back to school season is here! As we savor those final moments of summer vacation, it's hard not to start thinking about how we'll welcome our students back. With so many ideas swirling around, it's exciting to plan back to school activities that not only engage our students but also set the tone for a successful year ahead. Today, I'm sharing some of my favorite back to school activities that are perfect for older students and sure to make a positive impact!

Importance of Back to School Activities in Middle and High School

When it comes to back to school activities, we often think of them as something just for the younger kids. I’m here to tell you that they’re just as important for our older students in middle and high school. At this age, our students are navigating so much from new classes, different teachers, and all the social dynamics that come with being a teen. Back to school activities provide a way to ease them into the school year, helping to break the ice, build connections, and set the tone for a positive classroom environment.

Even though they might not show it, our older students appreciate a chance to reconnect with friends, meet new classmates, and establish routines in a way that’s low-pressure and fun. These activities help them feel more comfortable and confident as they dive into the more serious academic work ahead. Plus, it’s a great way for us as teachers to get a glimpse into their personalities, learning styles, and group dynamics. So, don’t underestimate the power of back to school activities. They’re essential for getting our older students off to a great start!

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Memorable End of Year Activities for Middle & High School Students

As the end of the school year approaches, it's a whirlwind of emotions for both students and teachers. We're all eagerly anticipating the upcoming summer break, counting down the days until we can kick back and relax. Amidst the excitement, there's a tinge of bittersweetness, especially for teachers. 

As you glance around the classroom during these last few weeks, you'll likely feel a surge of pride seeing your students working, chatting with their friends, or sharing a moment of laughter together as a class. It's incredible to witness how much they've grown since the beginning of the year. I know sometimes it can feel like we are spinning wheels when we are in the thick of it, but these moments make me realize just how far they've come. 

Nine months may seem like a short time, but within the school year, so much can happen. That's why it's essential to pause and reflect on all the achievements, big and small, that our students have accomplished. Today, I'm sharing a few ways I celebrate the end of the year with my students to make these final days memorable! 

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The Power of Primary Source Letters in History Class

As educators, we're always on the lookout for innovative ways to breathe life into history lessons. If you're like me, you understand the thrill of transporting students back in time to allow them to experience the past firsthand. However, sometimes our students perceive people from the past as distant or unrelatable. They easily dismiss their relevance because, before they know them, they are just random people who lived in times so different from our own. That's where primary source letters come into play! Today, we're exploring the captivating world of primary source letters and how they can transform your history lessons to engage your students! These letters bridge the gap between the past and the present. While doing so, they reveal how people from history are actually quite similar to us.

Discovering Primary Source Letters

Let's kick things off by diving deeper into the wealth of knowledge held by primary source letters. These letters are authentic documents penned by individuals from the past. They offer us a direct line to their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. 

Primary source letters are not just pieces of paper meant to collect dust. They're time capsules brimming with the hopes, fears, and dreams of their authors. From soldiers scribbling their thoughts on the battlefield to pioneers chronicling their journeys westwards, these letters capture what was happening during their eras. Whether it's an immigrant writing to family back home or a politician penning their next speech, each document offers us a different perspective of the past. They weave a tapestry of human experiences that cross continents and centuries. 

In a world where history books often focus on the big names and major events, primary source letters offer our young historians a change of pace. These letters shine a light on the everyday people whose stories might go untold—the unsung heroes and heroines who shaped history in their own small, but significant ways. 

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Hispanic Heritage Month Research Ideas

You know those moments in your classroom when your student lights up because they finally see someone who looks like them, speaks their language, or shares part of their story? Those moments matter more than we sometimes realize. Hispanic Heritage Month gives you a built-in opportunity to create those connections while also helping all of your students understand the impact Hispanic and Latino individuals have had across history, science, the arts, and beyond. 

Let's be honest, figuring out how to do this in a meaningful way (without just naming a few famous figures and moving on) can feel overwhelming. You want your students to truly connect with these stories, but finding the time, structure, and right resources to make that happen isn’t always easy. This is your chance to make those stories impactful. When your students take the time to learn about real people and their contributions, it shifts learning from memorizing facts to building understanding, respect, and awareness. 

What Hispanic Heritage Month Means and Why It Matters in Your Classroom

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated each year from September 15 through October 15. This month was chosen intentionally because it includes the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15, followed by Mexico on September 16 and Chile on September 18. 

When you introduce Hispanic Heritage Month to your students, it helps to go beyond a simple definition. You can explain that the term “Hispanic” generally refers to people who come from Spanish-speaking countries. “Latino” often refers to people from Latin America. These terms can overlap, but they are not always interchangeable. This is a great opportunity to model respectful language and help your students understand identity. Even taking five to ten minutes to discuss this at the start of your unit can make the rest of your activities more meaningful.

This is also a great place to pause and think about how you want to frame the month for your students. You might start with a short discussion, a map activity, or even a quick brainstorm of what your students already know. From there, transitioning into research is a natural next step. Instead of assigning random topics, you’re giving your students real people to explore. This makes the learning feel more relevant and engaging. 

How to Use a Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Page in Your Classroom

Once your students have been introduced to Hispanic Heritage Month, the next step is giving them a clear and structured way to organize their research. That’s where a simple resource can make a big difference. Instead of having your students gather random facts or struggle with where to begin, you can guide them through a research process that helps them think more deeply about the person they are studying.

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Page

My Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Page is designed to do exactly that. It’s a free print and digital template that works with any person your students choose to research. Rather than limiting you to a specific list, it gives you the flexibility to use the names provided in this post or bring in additional figures that connect to your curriculum. Your students will start by adding the person’s name and then work through a series of prompts that guide their thinking and research.

On the page, students complete seven different sections that go beyond basic facts. They include biographical information, key accomplishments, and an important quote from the person they are studying. Your students are also asked to explain the significance of that quote. You’ll also notice prompts that ask your students why we should learn about this person and what questions they would ask them. This helps bring in personal reflection and engagement. Another feature that your students will enjoy is creating three hashtags to describe the person’s life. This gives them a creative way to summarize what they’ve learned while still staying focused on the content. 

Ways to Use the Resource

This resource can be used in a really manageable way. You might start by modeling one section together as a class using a shared figure. Then, you can have your students work independently or in pairs to complete the rest. This can easily fit into one or two class periods, depending on how in-depth you want the research to be. You can also create a bulletin board display, hallway showcase, or implement a short presentation activity once your students are finished.

Hispanic Heritage Month Research Ideas to Get Your Students Started

Now that you have a clear way to introduce Hispanic Heritage Month and a structure your students can use to organize their research, the next step is choosing who they will research. This is often the part that can slow things down, especially if your students aren’t sure where to start or if you’re trying to quickly gather appropriate options.

To make this easier, I’ve put together a list of over 40 influential figures across a variety of fields. This allows your students to explore different interests, whether they are drawn to sports, music, science, history, or leadership. You can assign individuals, let your students choose, or even have them work in pairs. 

As your students work through their research, you can have them use the Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Page to organize their thinking, record important information, and reflect on why their chosen person matters. This keeps the activity focused, meaningful, and easy to manage from start to finish.

Athletes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Roberto Clemente

Roberto Clemente was a Hall of Fame baseball player
who played for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He was known not only for his talent on the field, but also for his humanitarian efforts. He died in a plane crash while delivering aid to Nicaragua.

Laurie Hernandez

Laurie Hernandez is an Olympic gymnast who competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics. She helped the U.S. team win a gold medal and also earned an individual silver medal. She later became a public figure and advocate for mental health.

Oscar De La Hoya

Oscar De La Hoya is a professional boxer who won an Olympic gold medal in 1992. He went on to win multiple world titles in different weight classes. He is also known for promoting boxing after his career.

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi is widely considered one of the greatest soccer players in history. He has won multiple Ballon d’Or awards and led Argentina to a World Cup victory. His skill, vision, and consistency have made him a well-known icon around the world.

Pelé

Pelé was a legendary soccer player from Brazil who won three World Cups. He scored over 1,000 goals during his career. He is often considered one of the greatest athletes of all time.

Artists, Musicians, and Entertainers

Desi Arnaz

Desi Arnaz was an actor and musician best known for I Love Lucy. He also helped revolutionize television production behind the scenes. His work influenced how sitcoms are filmed today.

Celia Cruz

Celia Cruz was a famous salsa singer known as the “Queen of Salsa.” She recorded many popular songs and performed around the world. Her music continues to influence Latin artists today.

Gloria Estefan

Gloria Estefan is a Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter. She helped bring Latin pop music to mainstream audiences. She has sold millions of records worldwide.

Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter known for her self-portraits. Her artwork often reflected her life experiences and Mexican culture. 

Lin-Manuel Miranda

Lin-Manuel Miranda is a composer, actor, and playwright. He created the musicals Hamilton and In the Heights. His work blends history, music, and storytelling.

Rita Moreno

Rita Moreno is an award-winning actress, singer, and dancer. She is one of the few performers to win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. She has had a long career in film and television.

Diego Rivera

Diego Rivera was a Mexican artist known for his large murals. His work often showed Mexican history and everyday life. He was married to Frida Kahlo.

Selena

Selena was a popular Tejano singer known for her powerful voice and performances. She became one of the most influential Latin artists of her time. 

Joan Baez

Joan Baez is a folk singer known for her powerful voice and activism. She was involved in the civil rights movement and often used music to support social causes. Her songs helped bring attention to important issues.

George Lopez

George Lopez is a comedian and actor known for his television show George Lopez. His work often highlights family, culture, and everyday life experiences. He has also been involved in charitable work.

Carmen Miranda

Carmen Miranda was a singer, dancer, and actress known for her performances in films and on stage. She became popular in the United States during the 1940s. She helped introduce Latin music and culture to a wider audience.

Soledad O’Brien

Soledad O’Brien is a journalist and television host known for reporting on important social issues. She has created documentaries and worked with major news networks. She also supports education through her foundation.

Pablo Picasso

Pablo Picasso was a Spanish artist known for helping create Cubism. He produced thousands of works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings. 

Tito Puente

Tito Puente was a musician known for his work in Latin jazz and mambo music. He played multiple instruments and recorded many songs. He helped to make Latin music popular in the United States.

Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta was a fashion designer known for elegant clothing designs. His work was worn by public figures, including U.S. first ladies. He became one of the most well-known designers in the world.

Cantinflas

Cantinflas, whose real name was Mario Moreno, was a famous Mexican actor and comedian. He became known for his humor and unique speaking style. He starred in many films and was popular across Latin America.

Writers and Poets

Sandra Cisneros

Sandra Cisneros is a writer best known for The House on Mango Street. Her work often explores identity and culture. Her books are frequently taught in schools.

 

Pablo Neruda  

Pablo Neruda was a poet and diplomat from Chile. He wrote many poems about love and politics. He won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1971. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary Soto

Gary Soto is a writer known for poetry and stories about everyday life. His work often reflects his experiences growing up. 

Quiara Alegría Hudes

Quiara Alegría Hudes is a playwright and author. She is known for writing the musical In the Heights with Lin-Manuel Miranda. Her work often explores identity and culture.

Leaders, Activists, and Historical Figures

Cesar Chavez

Cesar Chavez was a labor leader and civil rights activist. He worked to improve conditions for farmworkers in the United States. He co-founded the United Farm Workers union (In 2026, his reputation was severely damaged due to allegation and you may want to have students focus on Dolores Huerta instead of Chavez).

Dolores Huerta

Dolores Huerta is a labor leader and activist who co-founded the United Farm Workers. She helped organize strikes and advocate for workers’ rights. Her famous phrase is “Sí, se puede.”

Rigoberta Menchú

Rigoberta Menchú is a human rights activist from Guatemala. She worked to bring attention to the struggles of Indigenous people. She won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992.

Bob Menendez

Bob Menendez is a U.S. Senator from New Jersey. He has served in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. His work has focused on foreign policy and domestic issues.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. She became one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. She is known for her work on economic and environmental issues.

 

Eva Perón

Eva Perón was a political leader and the first lady of Argentina. She worked to support women’s rights and improve conditions for the poor. 

 

Irma Rangel

Irma Rangel was the first Mexican American woman elected to the Texas House of Representatives. She worked to improve education and opportunities for students. She also helped establish a law school in South Texas.

Sonia Sotomayor

Sonia Sotomayor is a justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. She is the first Latina to serve in this role. She has also written books about her life and experiences.

Pancho Villa

Pancho Villa was a leader during the Mexican Revolution. He played an important role in battles that helped shape Mexico’s history. 

Emiliano Zapata

Emiliano Zapata was a leader in the Mexican Revolution who fought for land reform. He supported farmers and worked to improve their rights. 

Scientists and Innovators

Mario Molina

Mario Molina was a chemist who studied the Earth’s atmosphere. His research helped explain damage to the ozone layer. He won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1995.

Ellen Ochoa

Ellen Ochoa was the first Hispanic woman to travel to space. She later became the director of the Johnson Space Center. She has also worked as an engineer and inventor.

Luis Walter Alvarez

Luis Walter Alvarez was a physicist who won the Nobel Prize in Physics. He contributed to important discoveries in science, including work on subatomic particles. 

France A. Córdova

France A. Córdova is an astrophysicist who has worked with NASA. She has also served as the director of the National Science Foundation. Her work focuses on space science and education.

José M. Hernández

José Hernández is a NASA astronaut and engineer. He worked on missions related to space exploration and later became an advocate for education. 

Helen Rodríguez Trías

Helen Rodríguez Trías was a doctor and public health advocate. She worked to improve healthcare for women and children. She was the first Latina president of the American Public Health Association.

Explore More Hispanic Heritage Month and Research Resources

Remember to grab my free Hispanic Heritage Spotlight page! If you want to keep the research going in your classroom, there are even more spotlight research pages you can use throughout the year. You can easily bring the same structure into other meaningful units like Black History Month, Arab American Heritage Month, Women’s History Month, and more. Having a consistent format helps your students focus on the learning instead of trying to figure out what to do each time.

You can also explore additional resources in my TPT store, where you’ll find complete units and activities to support your social studies instruction. From timeline activities and map skills to full research projects for world history and American history, I created these resources to help you save time while still keeping your students engaged. Whether you’re building a full unit or just looking for something to supplement what you’re already teaching, you’ll have options that are ready to use!

Making Hispanic Heritage Month Memorable

Hispanic Heritage Month is more than just a date on the calendar. It is an opportunity to help your students connect with real people, real stories, and real contributions that have shaped the world around them. When you give your students the chance to research and reflect on these individuals, you are helping them build a deeper understanding of history, culture, and identity. These are the kinds of learning experiences that stick with them far beyond your classroom.

With the structure of the spotlight page and a list of influential figures, you have everything you need to make this both meaningful and manageable. Whether you use this as a short research activity, a classroom display, or part of a larger unit, you are creating space for your students to see themselves, learn about others, and recognize the impact people can have. 

Save for Later

Be sure to save this post so you have a collection of Hispanic Heritage Month research ideas whenever you need them. Having everything organized in one place makes it easy to come back to when you’re planning lessons, setting up a research project, or looking for a meaningful activity your students will connect with.

 

 

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Classroom Activities to Survive the Last Few Days Before Break

As we near the holiday season, the buzz of excitement is everywhere! My students are practically vibrating with anticipation, counting down the days until the holiday break. The festive energy is contagious. While it's wonderful to see their joy, it can be a challenge to keep everyone focused and engaged when all they can think about is the holiday fun. While it seems that learning is impossible, it doesn't have to be that way.  To help you survive the last few days before the holiday break, I have a selection of classroom activities that are not only fun but also educational! These lesson plans have been my lifesaver during this time of the school year, right before a break. They help us keep the momentum going while embracing the fun of the holidays. 

Classroom Activities to Engage Your Students

Over the years, I have gathered a collection of engaging classroom activities that have become my go-to for keeping my classroom lively and productive during the countdown to the holiday break. These activities were created to capture my students' attention and channel their excitement into something academic. Let's explore these classroom activities that will make your last few days together both enjoyable and memorable!

Middle Ages: Will Your Kingdom Survive 

In my World History class, we usually dive into the fascinating era of the Middle Ages around holiday break time. To make this period even more engaging, I love using a simulation. The Middle Ages simulation has quickly become a favorite among my students! This interactive activity transports them into a fictional kingdom during the Middle Ages. There, they get to make important decisions and see the consequences unfold. 

Each student begins by randomly selecting a fictional kingdom profile and a treasury card. These elements set the stage for the adventure and influence some of their decisions throughout the simulations. They then face 18 different scenarios. Each scenario presents multiple options. Depending on their choices, they either gain or lose gold coins for their treasury. This adds a fun and competitive edge to the activity. 

Even though the kingdoms and scenarios are fictional, my students love making connections to the real historical events and concepts we've or will discuss about the Middle Ages. Once the simulation is over, they get creative by writing a story that weaves in what they've learned, along with at least two of the scenarios they encountered during the simulation.

Christmas Traditions Around the World Scavenger Hunt

If you're on the lookout for fun classroom activities that bring technology into the mix, my students enjoy this Christmas Traditions Around the World Scavenger Hunt! This activity is a fantastic way to get everyone up and moving while learning about how different cultures celebrate Christmas. There are a couple versions of this activity. One version uses QR codes, but if that isn't really your thing, there's another version that does not have QR codes!

There are 30 different cards with statements about all the different Christmas traditions from around the world. I take these cards and scatter them around the room to encourage my students to get up and move. Ready with their QR Code Readers, my students go through the scavenger hunt to discover which country has which traditions. My students love this activity because they get to move around, use technology, and learn about different traditions. They fill out a handout as they go along!

I also include a digital version, so if you have students out of school or already traveling they can join in on the fun! No one misses out on exploring Christmas traditions from around the globe. This activity definitely keeps everyone engaged! 

Christmas Traditions Around the World Bingo

My students always get a kick out of playing Bingo. It just so happens to be the perfect follow-up activity
after our scavenger hunt. It's a fantastic way to review all the interesting things they discovered about Christmas traditions from around the world. This Christmas Traditions Around the World Bingo game is one of the top classroom activities to turn learning into a fun time!

The game comes with 30 different Bingo boards and calling cards filled with terms and definitions related to Christmas traditions. It's so much fun watching my students eagerly exclaim and mark off their boards as they recall what they've learned. 

Bingo has always been a favorite in my classroom. This themed version is a great way to keep the holiday spirit alive while reinforcing our new knowledge. 

Doodle Notes to Make Note-Taking Fun

In Civics, I love using Doodle Notes to keep note-taking engaging. If it's a Presidential election year, we dive into the Electoral College. If it's not, we explore how a bill becomes a law. Both of these classroom activities come in print and digital versions, which makes differentiation a bit easier!

When we cover the Electoral College, I pull out the Electoral College Doodle Notes. My students learn about how it works and what role it plays during Presidential elections. As I go through the presentation, my students follow along on their note pages. They enjoy the coloring and doodling as we take notes. It's a fantastic way for them to absorb the information while having a bit of creative fun. 

My How a Bill Becomes a Law Doodle Notes are very similar. With this set of notes, my students learn about the entire process. They start with a bill's introduction in the House of Representatives and work their way to becoming a law. My students fill in and color their note pages as we go through the presentation. This helps them stay engaged and retain the information. 

Civil War Map Activity

In my U.S. History classes, we dive into some engaging classroom activities with maps that really bring history to life. One of my favorites is our Civil War map activity. It's great for helping my students visualize what the United States looked like during this period. This map includes the western territories, locations of key battles, and which states were Union, Confederate, or Border states. 

This activity is a wonderful way to weave geography into our history lessons. My students have hands-on experience by labeling, coloring, and drawing on their maps. By the end of the unit, this map was one of the most memorable tools my students had found useful. To help reinforce their maps, I have my students answer a few questions. 

This map activity helps my students grasp the geographical context of the Civil War and makes this unit more engaging. The historical event becomes more relevant and concrete for them. After this activity, their interests are usually piqued, and they want to explore more! 

Make the Last Few Days Before Easy with These Classroom Activities 

As we count down the days to the holiday break, these classroom activities have been my secret for keeping the excitement manageable and the learning ongoing. From navigating medieval kingdoms to exploring global Christmas traditions, these engaging activities ensure that every moment in our classroom is filled with fun and discovery. I hope these ideas inspire you to create a vibrant learning environment for your students as you wrap up these last few days. Wishing you all a joyful and restful holiday break. Let's make these last few days before the break ones to remember! 

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Helpful Resources for Teaching About Veterans Day

Every November, I take time to help my students understand the real meaning behind Veterans Day. It’s more than a day off or a chance to catch up on sleep. Veterans Day is an opportunity to recognize the sacrifice and service of those who’ve worn a military uniform. In my classroom, I’ve found that blending history, primary sources, poetry, and discussion helps my students connect emotionally and intellectually with the purpose of this important day. I’m sharing some of my favorite Veterans Day resources and exactly how I’ve used them. This way, you can bring meaningful conversations and lessons to your classroom, too.

Teaching the History Behind Veterans Day

One of the first things I like to do is give my students some background on why we even celebrate Veterans Day on November 11. The Office of Public Affairs’ article on the history of Veterans Day is a great starting point. It’s short and to the point, which makes it easy to share as a whole-class read or assign for independent work.

I usually project this article and read it aloud while my students follow along, highlighting key points. Then we talk about the historical significance of November 11, the day World War I ended, and why that date was chosen for this federal holiday. If I’m short on time, I’ll have my students annotate the article in pairs or summarize it in a quick write. It’s a simple but solid foundation for everything else we do throughout our Veterans Day unit.

This article also helps clear up common misconceptions. Students often confuse Veterans Day with Memorial Day. This gives us a chance to stop and clarify those differences.

Veterans Day Video Resources That Spark Curiosity

Videos are a great way to grab attention, and History Channel’s Bet You Didn't Know This About Veterans Day is one of my go-tos. It’s fast-paced, packed with fun facts, and helps my students understand the evolution of the holiday. I like to show it after we’ve read the background article so my students can see how history connects across different types of media.

After watching, we do a quick turn-and-talk or a journal entry answering, “What’s one thing you didn’t know before watching?” It’s always fun to hear what stood out, like the fact that the holiday used to be called Armistice Day or how it briefly honored peace before shifting to recognize all veterans.

Another helpful video resource is this one by Scripps News on The Difference Between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. I like using this one as a compare-and-contrast tool. I have my students take notes on what each holiday honors, then we create a quick Venn diagram or two-column chart. It leads to thoughtful conversations and helps them walk away with a clearer understanding of both days.

Using Veterans Day For Discussion and Critical Thinking

If you’re looking to push your students’ thinking a bit deeper, The Guardian’s editorial Why Doesn’t the United States Observe Armistice Day? makes for a great discussion starter. It’s definitely thought-provoking and encourages students to explore how other countries approach remembrance and reflection.

I’ve used this editorial with my older students as part of a Socratic seminar or a structured debate. We read it together and highlight the author’s main points. Then, we reflect on how national identity and tradition shape the way countries observe important events. If you teach writing, it also makes a fantastic prompt for argumentative or opinion writing.

Even if your students don’t agree with the editorial’s argument, it still gets them thinking critically, which is always a win in my book.

Bringing in Primary Sources 

To help my students really understand what World War I soldiers went through, I bring in the Eyewitness to History account of the 1918 Armistice. It’s a short but powerful firsthand description that adds emotion and context to our Veterans Day lessons.

We read it aloud together and talk about how the soldiers might have felt when they heard the war was finally over. I ask my students to underline phrases that stand out and write a short reflection, imagining they were there when the announcement came. The description often surprises them, but helps shift the conversation from dates and facts to real human experiences.

Pairing this account with a map of Europe during World War I  also helps students visualize the setting. If you already teach WWI, it’s an easy way to tie Veterans Day into your larger unit.

Veterans Day and Poetry: Teaching “In Flanders Fields”

One of the most meaningful parts of my Veterans Day lessons is introducing our students to the poem In Flanders Fields by John McCrae. I use my Remembrance Day resource, and it’s truly one of my favorite ways to get my students thinking about sacrifice and memory.

We start by reading the poem aloud, either as a class or in small groups. I ask my students to listen to the rhythm and visualize what McCrae might have seen. Then, we use the provided info sheet to learn about who John McCrae was, why he wrote the poem, and what was happening during the Second Battle of Ypres. 

Next, we dive into the poem analysis questions. These help my students reflect on the mood, the message, and the emotion behind each line. I’ve had some incredibly thoughtful conversations come out of this activity. We also talk about symbols like the poppy and how remembrance looks different in the U.S. compared to countries that observe Armistice or Remembrance Day.

Extension Activities with “In Flanders Fields”

After we’ve discussed the poem and its meaning, we shift to a more creative side. The “Draw It” handout from the Remembrance Day resource is one of my favorite ways to give my students a chance to interpret the poem visually. I remind them that this isn’t about artistic skill. It’s about expressing the imagery and emotion in a new way.

My students are also able to create illustrations of what they see when they hear or read In Flanders Fields. Some draw rows of crosses with bright red poppies, while others focus on the image of the torch being passed. It’s incredible to see how each student visualizes the poem differently. It often leads to a gallery walk where we quietly observe each other’s work.

I also have students complete the info sheet questions. These are perfect for assessment or for wrapping up the lesson. Whether you do it independently, in pairs, or as a class discussion, the questions help students pull together everything they’ve learned and felt about Veterans Day.

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Helping Students Connect with the Meaning of Veterans Day

Veterans Day is such a powerful opportunity to help our students understand the importance of service, sacrifice, and remembrance. By weaving together primary sources, historical context, poetry, and creative activities, we can guide our students in developing a deeper appreciation for those who’ve served. Whether you use all of these resources or just a few, your Veterans Day lessons can be both meaningful and memorable. That’s what teaching history is all about.

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Be sure to save this post so you’ll have everything you need when November rolls around. Pin it to your favorite history board. You’ll be glad you did when it’s time to bring meaningful, engaging activities to your classroom.

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