Spotlight America's history,
founding principles and defining characteristics

What does the red, white and blue of the U.S. Flag stand for?  Why do we say the Pledge of Allegiance? Who is Uncle Sam?  Why do we have fireworks on the Fourth of July?  What's a Yankee Doodle?  Why is the national anthem played at baseball games?  Our nation's history and heritage is remembered and preserved by  understanding the answers to these questions.

That's why Sunburst is pleased to release the new social studies video, Symbols and Ceremonies:  Celebrating America.   Aimed at students in grades 3-8, this vibrant program is designed to enhance the knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the symbols and ceremonies that Americans hold most dear.

With the help of engaging peer hosts, compelling graphics, and historical pictures, the energetic video gives viewers clear and accurate information about the origin, development, and meaning of the symbols and ceremonies in American history.  

The video's Teacher's Guide is packed with a wealth of materials sure to spark class discussions and individual learning about our nation's history and heritage.   Before-Viewing activities activate a learner's prior knowledge and introduce new vocabulary. During-Viewing pages focus on a concept presented in the video. After-Viewing and Creative Arts Activities are designed for re-teaching, extension, and enrichment.

After viewing the 23-minute Symbols and Ceremonies:  Celebrating America video and working with the provided activities, students will be able to define, identify, and explain the historical significance of:  The American Flag, The Pledge of Allegiance, The Great Seal of the United States, The Statue of Liberty, Uncle Sam, Independence Day, The National Anthem, and more.  They'll also be able to:

•  use introduced vocabulary appropriately in writing and discussion;
•  name important historical figures related to the symbols and ceremonies;
•  relate the symbol or ceremony to the historical event or defining characteristic it represents.

In addition to 22 student activity worksheets, the Teacher's Guide contains a helpful introduction, suggestions for use,  a thorough bibliography, an activities answer key, and complete script of the video program.

For more than 25 years, Sunburst Communications, Inc. (Pleasantville, NY), has led the field in K-12 health and guidance publishing with a diverse line of video and software products designed to help teachers actively engage students in creative learning and problem-solving.  Today, the award-winning educational media company is adding to its career guidance list and expanding its focus by offering innovative science and social studies resources.