Category Archives: Science
Special Days in December, 2016
Learning Resources for Special Days in November
There are wonderful opportunities for learning from the November calendar! Here’s a BiG resource list for teaching and learning with November’s themes, holidays, and special days. Be sure to check back occasionally throughout the month, for I’ll be adding to this collection as more resources become available.
November holidays, observances, food themes, and awareness days, historic figures, composers, artists and authors birthdays, science and history based anniversaries, and more! https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2020/10/27/special-days-in-november-2/
Printable SPECIAL DAYS IN NOVEMBER
Helpful “go-to” resources for educational calendars, monthly themes, and special days studies https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2016/07/31/learning-resources-for-special-days/
How I use Special Days lists in our homeschool blog series :
Special Days and the Evolution of Morning Calendar Time
November Themes
Adopt a Turkey – Wild Turkey Resources, Crafts, and Activities http://www.franw.com/2011/11/wild-turkeys.html
Aviation – The study resources we used during August’s “Aviation Week” are great and will work just as well in November. https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/08/17/aviation-week-learning-resources/
Diabetes – Pre-K – 12 Teacher Guides, Worksheets, and Quizzes – Just enter “diabetes” into the search bar to pull up which level you need – http://classroom.kidshealth.org/index.jsp?Grade=0&Section=welcome
Geography Awareness – Geography Activities, Ideas, and Resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2017/07/29/special-days-and-geography/
Historic Bridges – Learning Resources and Activities https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2016/05/27/bridges/
Music – We also go to this site often for music theory, composer biographies, and free sheet music printables http://makingmusicfun.net/
NaNoWriMo (National November Writing Month) – Young Writers Program – Guides, Lesson Plans and Workbooks – https://ywp.nanowrimo.org/pages/educator-resources and the NaNoWriMo homepage http://ywp.nanowrimo.org/
Native American Heritage – Resources and Activities http://www.franw.com/2015/10/native-american-resources.html
Squash – Resources and Recipes http://www.franw.com/2011/11/3-sisters-squash-pumpkins.html
Sweet Potato Awareness – Resources and Recipes http://www.franw.com/2015/09/sweet-potato-resources.html
Thanksgiving (US)
- Learn about the people, times, events, and foods leading up to the first “Pilgrim/Indian” Thanksgiving. https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/11/08/thanksgiving-unit-study-ideas-and-resources/
- Learn about Thanksgiving during WW1, the Depression, and WW2 – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/11/15/thanksgiving-been-there-done-that/
- Resource Page – http://www.franw.com/2013/11/thanksgiving-activities.html
World Communication – Communication Skill Building Videos https://www.edutopia.org/topic/communication-skills
Presidents With Nov. Birthdays:
- Nov. 2 – Warren Harding 1865
- Nov. 2 – James Polk 1795
- Nov. 23 – Franklin Pierce 1804
- Nov. 24 – Zachary Taylor 1784
Presidents Resources and Activities – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/02/14/resources-for-presidents-day/
Nov. Statehood Anniversaries
- Nov. 2 – North and South Dakota1889
- Nov. 8 – Montana 1889
- Nov. 16 – Oklahoma 1907
- Nov. 21 – North Carolina 1789
Special Days and Geography https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2017/07/29/special-days-and-geography/
November Daily Specials
Nov. 1 – Plate Tectonics Day – Lesson Plans and Activitieshttp://geology.com/teacher/plate-tectonics.shtml
Nov. 2 – Alternate birth date for Daniel Boone 1734 (other sources say Oct, 22) https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/10/22/daniel-boone/
Nov. 3 – First Dog in Space 1957 – Article and Resource List http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/astronomy/dogs/
Nov. 4 – Common Sense Day – Read the Thomas Payne Publications http://www.pagebypagebooks.com/Thomas_Paine/Common_Sense/ and watch this episode of Liberty’s Kids http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awlBeITstkE
Nov. 5 – Guy Fawkes Day and Bonfire Night – http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/guy-fawkes
Nov. 6 – Marooned Without a Compass Day – 8 Ways to Find North Without a Compass https://www.wikihow.com/Find-True-North-Without-a-Compass
Nov. 6 – Composer John Phillips Sousa born 1854 – Audio Biography with Music Selections http://www.classicsforkids.com/shows/shows.php?id=60
Nov. 7 – Scientist Marie Curie born 1867 – Short Biography and Printables http://gardenofpraise.com/ibdcurie.htm
Nov. 7 – Evangelist Billy Graham born 1918 – K-12 Downloadable Lesson Plans –https://billygrahamlibrary.org/educational-resources/
Nov. 8 – Tongue Twister Day – How fast can you say these? http://www.funenglishgames.com/funstuff/tonguetwisters.html
Nov. 9 – Berlin Wall Opened, 1989 – Article, Facts, and Quiz http://www.ducksters.com/history/cold_war/berlin_wall.php
Nov. 9 – Kristallnacht Anniversary 1938 – Exhibition, Video, and Educational Resource List https://www.lookstein.org/professional-dev/kristallnacht-resources/
Nov. 10 – Theologian Martin Luther born 1483 – Resource and Activity List
https://simplelivingcreativelearning.com/reformation-day-resources-and-activities/
Nov. 11 – Origami Day – http://www.franw.com/2013/12/holiday-and-winter-origami.html
Nov. 11 – Remembrance/Veterans Day – http://www.franw.com/2013/11/veteransremembrance-day.html
Nov. 12 – Reformer Elizabeth Stanton born 1815 – http://www.franw.com/2013/11/womens-suffrage-research-resource.html
Nov. 13 – World Kindness Day – 100 Acts of Kindness Ideas for Kids and Families https://www.coffeecupsandcrayons.com/100-acts-kindness-kids/
Nov. 14 – Artist Claude Monet born 1840 – http://harringtonharmonies.com/2013/04/art-unit-for-claude-monet.html
Nov. 15 – America Recycles Day – Crafting with Recyclables http://www.franw.com/2013/04/make-your-own-crafts-from-repurposed.html
Nov. 15 – Artist Georgia O’Keefe born 1887 – Big Flower and Color Art Project http://harringtonharmonies.com/2013/05/create-color-like-okeeffe-a-georia-okeefe-arty-unit.html
Nov. 16 – Fast Food Day – Fast Food Nutrition Lesson Plans (middle school/high school) – http://www.fastfoodnutrition.org/lesson-plans.php
Nov. 17 – Explorers Lewis and Clark reached the Pacific Ocean 1805 (some sources say 15th)- Student Activities http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/activity/lewis-and-clark-student-activity
Nov. 18 – Mickey Mouse Debut 1928 Watch the first Mickey Mouse cartoon http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6c_WgxTsMo
Nov. 19 – World Toilet Day – Learning Resources – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2015/11/19/world-toilet-day/
Nov. 21 – First Hot Air Balloon Flight 1763 – http://www.franw.com/2014/06/hot-air-balloons.html
Nov. 25 – Author/Illustrator Marc Brown born 1946 – Educator Resources, Activities, and Lesson Plans http://marcbrownstudios.com/school/educators-faq/
Nov. 25 – Woody Woodpecker Debut 1940 – Watch These 1940’s Episodes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOTOpybYf20
Nov. 26 – Cartoonist Charles Schulz born 1922 – Peanuts resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/10/02/peanuts/
Nov. 29
- Chocolates Day – Resources and Activities http://www.franw.com/2013/12/chocolate-activities.html
- Native American Day * – Resource Page http://www.franw.com/2015/10/native-american-resources.html
Nov. 29 – Author CS Lewis born 1898 – Interactive Biography and Fun Facts http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/primaryhistory/famouspeople/cs_lewis/
Nov. 30 – Author Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) born 1835 –
- Biography and Printables – http://gardenofpraise.com/ibdtwain.htm
- Tour Hannibal, MO http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaZsjG1bork
- Literature Study Guides (you’ll need to scroll down towards the bottom) http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/index_author_t.html
- Quotes http://twainquotes.com/quotesatoz.html
Happy November Learning!
betty jo
World Sight Day
According to the special days calendar for October, the second Thursday is World Sight Day. It’s been a couple of years since we’ve covered eyes, vision, and eye health so it’s time to revisit the topic. I’ve updated our resource list. There are awesome study helps including videos, diagrams, and activities!
Click here for the revised resource list https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/10/10/wolrd-sight-day/
Learning Resources for Special Days in October
The October calendar has lots of learning opportunities. Below is a wonderful collection of free resources for themed and special day studies all through the month! Be sure to check back often for updates throughout October.
For the complete list of Special Days in October https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2020/09/30/special-days-in-october-2/
Free Printable Special Days in October
Resources for October Themes
- October Symbols, History, Fun Facts https://www.ducksters.com/history/octoberinhistory.php
- Apples – Resource and Activity Page – http://www.franw.com/2013/11/apple-resources.html
- Bats – Resource Page – http://www.franw.com/2013/10/bat-resource-page.html
- Birds of Prey – Owl Resources – http://www.franw.com/2012/10/owls.html
- Candy – Play, Invent and Explore – http://www.housingaforest.com/candy-potions/
- Discover October – Learning Resources, Activities, Crafts, and Recipes http://www.franw.com/2016/09/a-world-to-discover-october-volume-2.html
- Fire Safety – Parent, Teacher, and Student Resources – http://firefacts.org/
- Monsters – Learning Resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2015/10/20/monsters/
- Popcorn – Project Resources – http://www.franw.com/2014/10/popcorn-project.html
- Pumpkins – Here’s a “big ole’ list” of pumpkin themed resources, printables, and recipes http://www.blessedbeyondadoubt.com/pumpkins-free-printables-activities-recipes/
- Salem Witch Trials – Learning Resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/10/30/salem-witch-trials/
- Stamp Collecting – Educational Resources from the American Philatelic Society including a sign up for a free stamp collection starter kit – http://stamps.org/Education
- Autumn Leaves Science and Activities – https://www.outdoors.org/articles/amc-outdoors/autumn-leaves-simple-science-and-activities-for-kids
Presidents Born in October:
- Oct. 1 – Jimmy Carter born 1924
- Oct. 4 – Rutherford Hayes born 1822
- Oct. 5 – Chester Arthur born 1829
- Oct. 14 – Dwight Eisenhower born 1890
- Oct. 27 – Theodore Roosevelt born 1858
- Oct. 30 – John Adams born 1735
Resources for studying any president. https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/02/14/resources-for-presidents-day/
October Statehood Anniversaries and Country Independence Days
- Nigeria Independence Oct. 1, 1960
- Guinea Independence Oct. 2, 1958
- Lesotho Independence Day Oct. 4, 1966
- Uganda Independence Day Oct. 9, 1962
- Fiji Independence Day Oct. 10, 1970
- Republic of China/Taiwan National Day Oct. 10, 1949
- Zambia Independence Day Oct. 24, 1964
- St Vincent and Grenadines Independence Day Oct. 27, 1979
- Nevada Statehood– Oct. 31, 1864
Resources for Special Days and Geography https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2017/07/29/special-days-and-geography/
October’s Daily Specials
Oct. 1
- Model T Ford introduced 1908 – Henry Ford Biography, Quiz, and Word Games Printables – http://gardenofpraise.com/ibdford.htm
- Raccoon Appreciation Day – Unit Study and Lapbook Printables http://www.homeschoolshare.com/raccoon.php
Oct. 2 –
- Farm Animals Day – Guide to Feeding, Housing, and Diseases http://www.countryfarm-lifestyles.com/farm-animals.html#.WdEIKmhSzIU
- Anniversary of the first Peanuts comic strip (1950) – Learning Resources – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/10/02/peanuts/
- Phileass Fogg Win a Wager Day – Around the World in 80 Days Resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2018/10/02/around-the-world-in-80-days/
Oct. 3 – SOS (distress code) established 1906 – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/08/sos-international-code.html
Oct. 4
- World Space Week begins – Activity Guide – http://www.helpteaching.com/blog/5-stellar-activities-for-world-space-week.html
- Oct. 4 Cinnamon Roll Day – Cinnamon Roll History, Serving and Nutrition https://ifood.tv/roll/cinnamon-roll/about
Oct. 5
- Physicist Robert Hutchings Goddard born 1882 – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/08/robert-hutchings-goddard.html
Oct. 6
-
- Mad Hatter Day – Make this adorable Cardboard Mad Hatter Hat – http://www.ikatbag.com/2010/06/hats.html
Oct. 7 – Physicist Niels Bohrs born 1885 – Resource List – http://www.franw.com/2017/08/niels-bohrs.html
Oct. 8 –
- Touch Tag Day – 10 Backyard Tag Games https://www.whatdowedoallday.com/tag-games-for-kids/
Oct. 9
- Chess Day – Learn and Play Resources http://www.franw.com/2017/08/chess.html
- Leif Erikson Day – Viking Resources – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/07/22/vikings/
- Top Spinning Day * – Make a Top http://www.koolkidscrafts.com/spinning-tops.html
- Washington Monument opened 1888 – Facts and Figures http://www.enchantedlearning.com/history/us/monuments/washingtonmonument/
Oct. 10 –
- Cake Decorating Day – Beginner’s Guide https://creativiu.com/cake-decorating/
- Metric Day – Videos, Songs, Activities – http://metricworld.net/
Oct. 11
- Apollo 7 lauched 1968 – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/08/apollo-7.html
- Eleanore Roosevelt born 1884 – Here’s a short biography, reading comprehension quizzes and word puzzle printables http://www.gardenofpraise.com/ibderoos.htm
Oct. 12 –
- Cookbook Launch Day – Make a Family Recipe Book http://www.instructables.com/id/Family-Recipe-Book/
- Egg Day – Science experiments, health info, and recipes https://www.franw.com/2012/04/bird-eggs.html
- Fossil Day – Education, Information, and Fun – http://fossilsforkids.com/
Oct. 13 –
- US Navy established 1775 – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/08/us-navy.html
- Margaret Thatcher born 1925 – Biography, Quiz, and Word Puzzles – http://gardenofpraise.com/ibdthatcher.htm
- White House Construction began 1792 – History, Trivia, and Virtual Tours – https://www.whitehouse.gov/about/inside-white-house
Oct. 14
- Photographic Film patented 1884 _ How Film Works http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/film.htm
Oct. 15
- Poetry Day – Resource List https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2019/08/21/poetry-resources/
- I Love Lucy Premier 1951 – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/08/i-love-lucy.html
Oct. 16
- Noah Webster born 1758 and Dictionary Day – This site has much more than a dictionary! You’ll find games, Webster biography, language history, daily buzz words, and a way to add your own made up words to a dictionary! – http://www.wordcentral.com/edu/index.htm
- World Food Day – Photo Collection What the World Eats – http://foodmatters.tv/articles-1/what-the-world-eats-shocking-photos
Oct. 17 –
- Author Arthur Miller born 1915 -Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/08/arthur-miller.html
- Salem Witch Trials – Resource List https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/10/30/salem-witch-trials/
Oct. 18 – Alternative Fuel Day –
- Renewable Energy Laboratory https://www.nrel.gov/workingwithus/learning.html
- Experiments with the Sun http://www.franw.com/2016/06/experiments-you-can-do-with-sun.html
Oct. 19
- Bridge Day – Learning Resources and Activities – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2016/05/27/bridges/
- Author/Illustrator Ed Emberly born 1931 – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/07/ed-emberley.html
- Electric Light Bulb Introduced 1879 – Learn How Light Bulbs Work Video – http://www.sciencekids.co.nz/videos/engineering/lightbulbs.html
Oct. 20 –
- Monster Mash Day – Monster Resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2015/10/20/monsters/
Oct. 21
- Apple Day – Research Project http://www.franw.com/2013/09/apple-research-project.html
Oct. 22
- Daniel Boone born 1734 – Resource and Activity List (We’ll definitely be playing the pioneer games again. They were awesome and they were outside!) https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/10/22/daniel-boone/
Oct. 23 – TV Talk Show Host Day – Tips to be a Successful Talk Show Host https://www.thoughtco.com/how-to-be-a-talk-show-host-3176989
Oct. 24 – United Nations Day – Lesson Plans, Activity Guides, Resources http://www.unausa.org/global-classrooms-model-un/for-educators/resources
Oct. 25
- Magic Week begins – Magic Tricks Resources – http://www.franw.com/2014/11/magic-tricks-resource-page.html
- Make a Difference Day * – 100+ Ways for Families to Make a Difference http://wearethatfamily.com/2011/06/100-ways-for-your-family-to-make-a-difference/
- Artist Pablo Picasso born 1881 – Picasso Inspired Art Lessons and Resources http://www.incredibleart.org/files/picasso.htm
Oct. 26
- Erie Canal opened 1825 – Information, Video, and Slide Show – http://www.pbs.org/program/erie-canal-made-america/
- Red Cross Founded 1836 – Learn what the Red Cross does – http://www.redcross.org/what-we-do
Oct. 27 – Tell a Story Day – Resources http://www.franw.com/2017/08/tell-story.html
Oct. 28
- Chocolate Day – Resources and Activities – http://www.franw.com/2013/12/chocolate-activities.html
- Statue of Liberty dedicated 1886 – Take a Virtual Tour – http://www.nps.gov/stli/learn/photosmultimedia/virtualtour.htm
Oct. 29
- Cat Day – Resource Page – http://www.franw.com/2014/08/domesticated-cats-resource-page.html
- Gateway to the West (St. Louis Arch) completed 1965 – History and Virtual Tour – http://edtech2.boisestate.edu/amysimon/502/gatewayarch.html
- The New York Stock Exchange crashed (beginning of The Great Depression) 1929 – Video Documentary – Part 1 of 4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccNilnpvbJg
Oct. 30 –
- Candy Corn Day – History, Facts, How It’s Made – https://www.candyusa.com/candy-types/candy-corn/
- Radio Broadcast of H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds 1938 – Read the radio script – http://www.sacred-texts.com/ufo/mars/wow.htm Listen to the broadcast – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xs0K4ApWl4g
Oct. 31
- Halloween – Resource Page – http://www.franw.com/2015/09/halloween-resources.html
- Knock Knock Joke Day – Jokes for “school work” are always a big hit with us. This is our family’s “go to” site for jokes http://www.enchantedlearning.com/jokes/topics/knockknock.shtml
The list of my favorite “go to”and “cross curriculum” resources to help with monthly themes, calendar, and special days lesson planning https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2016/07/31/learning-resources-for-special-days/
Happy October Learning!
betty jo
September Resources
Teaching and learning with the calendar is a popular choice for educators and students of all grades and levels. My family has been learning with Special Days for several years. You can find my favorite cross curricular collection of resources that can be used every month here https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2016/07/31/learning-resources-for-special-days/
Below are the online resources we have used during past September Special Days studies along with resources I have saved for future Septembers.
HUGE list of Special Days in September
Printable Special Days in September
Specific September Themed Resources
Apples – Learning Resources, Recipes, and Activities – http://www.franw.com/2013/11/apple-resources.html
Classical Music –
Composer, Music Theory, and Orchestra Lessons Plans and Printables http://makingmusicfun.net/
Composer Audio Biographies, Music, Games http://classicsforkids.com/
Disaster Preparedness –
Information, Resources, Activities, and Ideas http://www.franw.com/2016/05/emergency-preparedness-resources.html
Earthquakes – Learning Resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/10/16/earthquakes/
Hurricanes – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2015/09/tracking-hurricanes.html
DNA, Genomics, and Stem Cell Education –
Learn from this Animation Library – https://www.dnalc.org/resources/animations/
Also, Request Free Science Posters, Fact Sheets, and Brochures – (Immunology, Neuroscience, and Cell Biology) http://www.biolegend.com/literature/posters
Happy Cat Month – Domesticated Cats Learning Resources – http://www.franw.com/2014/08/domesticated-cats-resource-page.html
Children’s Good Manners –
Articles, Tips, Games, and more from Emily Post – http://www.emilypost.com/home-and-family
And, a nice list of resources for teaching/learning Manners and Etiquette http://howtohomeschoolforfree.com/free-etiquette-manners-curriculum/
Food Safety – Tips, activities, and games for kids – http://www.homefoodsafety.org/kids
People Skills –
Social Skill Development – https://www.skillsyouneed.com/parent/ips-children.html
Huge List of Lesson Plans Related to Social Skills – (these are geared towards the middle grades which makes it easy to adapt the lessons for higher or lower levels) http://www.cccoe.net/social/skillslist.htm
How to Communicate Better with Your Children and Conversation Ideas for Homeschooled Teens – from Blessed Learners
Save a Tiger –
Facts, Photos, Sounds – https://bigcatrescue.org/tiger-facts/
Tiger Unit Study and Lapbook printables – http://www.homeschoolshare.com/tiger_lapbook.php
Sewing –
Basic Hand Stitches for Beginners – http://www.redtedart.com/2016/05/10/basic-hand-stitches-beginners/
Easy Sewing Crafts for Kids – http://www.artistshelpingchildren.org/feltsewinglearnhowtosewartscraftsideaskids.html
Update Your Resume – Student Resume Tips and Forms – http://homeschooltipsandresources.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-student-resume-part-2.html
Presidents with September Birthdays
William Taft – Sept. 15, 1857
Presidents Learning Resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/02/14/resources-for-presidents-day/
September Statehood Anniversaries and Country Independence Dates
- Vietnam – Sept. 2, 1945
- San Marino – Sept. 3, 301 AD
- Qatar – Sept. 3, 1971
- Swaziland – Sept. 6, 1968
- Brazil – Sept. 7, 1822
- California – Sept. 9 1850
- Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, – Sept. 15, 1821
- Mexico – Sept. 16, 1810
- Papua New Guinea – Sept 16, 1975
- Belize – Sept. 21, 1981
- Malta – Sept. 21, 1964
- Bulgaria – Sept. 22, 1908
- Mali – Sept. 22, 1960
- Botswana – Sept. 30, 1966
Geography Activity and Resource List https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2017/07/29/special-days-and-geography/
Daily Specials for September
Sept. 1 – Emma M. Nutt Day – Telephone Etiquette Tips http://www.a-to-z-of-manners-and-etiquette.com/tips-on-telephone-etiquette.html
Sept. 1 – Nutrition Week begins – Lesson Plans, Activities, and Interactive Games – http://www.nourishinteractive.com/nutrition-education/teachers-lesson-plans
Sept. 2 – Blueberry Popsicle Day – A short article with the ‘cool’ history of the popsicle invention http://www.punchbowl.com/holidays/national-blueberry-popsicle-day
Sept. 2 – Great Fire of London 1666 – http://www.franw.com/2017/07/great-fire-of-london.html
Sept 3 – American Flag 1st Flown in Battle 1777 – Resources and Activities http://www.franw.com/2011/07/united-states-flag.html
Sept. 3 – Skyscraper Day – Learning Resources – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/09/03/resources-for-learning-about-skyscrapers/
Sept. 4 – Inventor Lewis Howard Latimer born 1848 – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/07/lewis-howard-latimer.html
Sept. 5 – Cheese Pizza Day – Project and Resource List http://www.franw.com/2016/08/pizza-project.html
Sept. 6 – Iguana Awareness Day – Huge Lizzard Resource List – http://www.franw.com/2014/05/lizard-resource-page.html
Sept. 7 – Artist, Grandma Moses born 1860 – Biography and art resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2016/09/07/grandma-moses/
Sept. 8 – Popcorn Festival begins – Project and Resource List http://www.franw.com/2014/10/popcorn-project.html
Sept. 9 – Teddy Bear Day – Fun Facts https://wiki.kidzsearch.com/wiki/Teddy_bear
Sept. 10 – Sewing Machine Patented 1846 – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/07/sewing-machine.html
Sept. 11 – 9/11 Remembrance Day/Patriot Day – Learning Resources https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/09/10/teaching-resources-for-patriot-day/
Sept. 11 – I Want to Start My Own Business Day – Lesson Plans and Resources http://bizkids.com/
Sept. 12 – Cleopatra’s Needle erected Sept. 12, 1878 (London)
http://www.projectbritain.com/calendar/September/CleopatrasNeedle.html
Sept. 12 – Lascaux Cave Painting Discovery 1940 – Cave Art Project – http://artlessonsforkids.me/2009/03/15/cave-art-comes-alive/
Sept 12 – Video Game Day – Video Games turned into lessons – http://www.franw.com/2015/08/video-games.html
Sept 13 – Chocolate Day – Learning Resources, Recipes, and Activities – http://www.franw.com/2013/12/chocolate-activities.html
Sept. 13 – Author, Roald Dahl born 1916 – Learning Resources – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2016/09/13/roald-dahl/
Sept. 13 – Defy Superstition Day – Learning Resources (This was one of our most interesting studies – ever!) https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/06/10/superstitions/
Sept. 13 – Peanut Day – Information, Activities, and Recipes http://www.franw.com/2015/12/peanuts.html
Sept. 14 – Handel’s ‘Messiah’ composed 1741 – Lesson Plan and Printables https://ichoosejoy.org/2015/12/02/free-handels-messiah-lesson-plan-and-10-page-printable-pack/
Sept. 14 – Star Spangled Banner Composed by Francis Scott Key 1814 – Learning Resources and Activities http://www.franw.com/2013/07/the-star-spangled-banner.html
Sept. 15 – Dot Day – Be inspired to create wonderful works of art with The Dot! Watch this video if you don’t have the book – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5mGeR4AQdM
Sept. 15 – Make a Hat Day – These cardboard recycle hats are great! We made J’s magician’s hat from one of these . – http://www.ikatbag.com/2010/06/hats.html
Sept 16 – Collect Rocks Day – Rocks and Minerals Learning Resources and Activities – http://www.franw.com/2015/08/rock-mineral-resources.html
Sept. 16 – Illusionist David Copperfield born 1956 – Magic Tricks Resources http://www.franw.com/2014/11/magic-tricks-resource-page.html
Sept. 16 – Pilgrims Set Sail to the New World – Mayflower Resources – http://www.franw.com/2011/11/mayflower.html
Sept. 17 – Constitution Week begins – Learning Resources – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/09/17/constitution-week-resources/
Sept. 18 – Roadrunner Cartoon debut 1949 – Watch a few of these videos – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_W_wz7qQVN0&list=PLL3uNn7f3npgkXGEU71mZSlb31vki3v-J&index=1
Sept. 18 – CIA created, 1947 – K-12 Resources, Games, and Puzzles from the CIA – https://www.cia.gov/kids-page
Sept. 19 – Talk Like a Pirate Day – Pirate Unit Study Resources and Activities (this was one of our all time favorites!) – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/09/19/arrrrgh-pirates/
Sept. 20 – Artist Dale Chihuly born 1941 – Resource Page –
https://www.franw.com/2017/07/dale-chihuly-resource-page.html
Sept. 21 – Banana Festival – Health and Nutrition Facts https://www.livescience.com/45005-banana-nutrition-facts.html
Sept. 21 – Miniature Golf Day – DIY Mini Golf Course (indoors or outdoors) – http://www.mykidsadventures.com/build-your-own-mini-golf-course/#more-8858
Sept. 22 – Elephant Appreciation Day – Resources and Activities – https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/08/10/elephants/
Sept. 22 – Scientist Michael Faraday born 1791 http://www.franw.com/2017/07/michael-faraday.html
Sept. 22 – World Rhino Day – Study and Lapbooking Printables – http://www.homeschoolshare.com/rhinos.php
Sept. 22 – Stonehenge Day – Lesson Plans and Resources https://www.schooliseasy.com/2016/04/focused-history-lesson-teaching-kids-about-stonehenge/
Sept. 22 – Autumnal Equinox – Learning Resources and Activities – http://www.franw.com/2013/09/fall-equinox.html
Sept. 23 – Author William Holmes McGuffey born 1800 – Free McGuffey Readers – http://www.learn-to-read-prince-george.com/McGuffey-readers.html
Sept 23 – Neptune Discovered 1846 – Facts http://www.planetsforkids.org/planet-neptune.html
Sept. 23 – Activist Victoria Woodhull born 1838 – Learning Resources and Activities – http://www.franw.com/2012/11/inspiring-people-victoria-woodhull.html
Sept. 24 – Jim Henson born 1936 – Resource List http://www.franw.com/2017/07/jim-henson.html
Sept. 24 – Punctuation Day – Interactive game – http://www.funenglishgames.com/grammargames/punctuation.html
Sept. 24 – Teach Ag Day – Lesson plans – https://www.naae.org/teachag/teachag_lessons.cfm
Sept 25 – Comic Book Day – Learning Resources and Activities – http://www.franw.com/2015/04/create-comic.html
Sept. 25 – Poet, Author, Song writer Shel Silverstein born 1930 – Biography and Resources – http://www.shelsilverstein.com/
Sept. 26 – Johnny Appleseed born 1774 – Resource Page http://www.franw.com/2017/07/johnny-appleseed-resource-page.html
Sept. 26 – Shamu (the whale) Day – FAQs – http://seaworld.org/en/animal-info/ask-shamu/faq/#killer-whales
Sept. 27 – Ancestor Appreciation Day – Family Tree Ideas and Printables
http://homeschoolgiveaways.com/2017/01/free-family-tree-printables-and-ideas/
Sept. 27 – Evangelist / Philanthropist George Mueller born 1805 – Biography and Printables – http://gardenofpraise.com/ibdmuller.htm
Sept. 27 – Rosetta Stone Deciphered 1822 – Fun Facts – http://www.primaryhomeworkhelp.co.uk/egypt/rosetta.htm
Sept. 28 – Artist Caravaggio born 1573 – Masterpieces Art Lesson and Gallery Slideshow http://educators.mfa.org/visiting-masterpieces-caravaggio-416016
Sept. 29 – Confucius born 551 BC – Biography, Information, and Resources – http://ancienthistory.mrdonn.org/Confucius.html
Sept. 29 – Heart Day – Kid’s Activities – http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/HealthierKids/ActivitiesforKids/Activities-for-Kids_UCM_304155_SubHomePage.jsp
Sept. 29 – Inventors Day – Inventions, Inventors, and Innovations History – http://www.ideafinder.com/history/index.html
Sept 30 – Hot Mulled Cider Day – Try making your own apple cider with this recipe – http://www.franw.com/2013/09/homemade-apple-cider.html
If you have special day resources for September, please share them with me so they can be added to this list. Also, if you find a link not operating properly, let me know about that, too.
Happy September Learning!
betty jo
Special Days in September, 2016
Learning Resources for Special Days
Recently, I was asked what resources to use for teaching from the Special Days posts. Every month has different topics, but I turn to the same tried and trusted web sites as I collect resources for our Special Days learning. Below is a list of those I find to be the most helpful when preparing our “from the calendar” studies. I hope that you will find them helpful, too.
Special Days and Biographies – How to and resource list https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2017/07/21/special-days-and-biographies/
Resources for Presidents Birthdays https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2014/02/14/resources-for-presidents-day/
Special Days and Geography – How to and resource list https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2017/07/29/special-days-and-geography/
Special Days and Science – How to with resource list https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2017/08/05/special-days-and-science/
A monthly calendar “resource of links and things to do, things to learn and things to explore” http://www.se7en.org.za/se7ens-almanac
Wonderful resources, activities, crafts, recipes, and open ended ideas often related to seasons, holidays, and monthly themes for families and independent learners http://www.franw.com/
Calendar of Books http://childrensbooks.about.com/od/readingresources/tp/current-calendar.htm
“Food, Nutrition, and Health By the Month” http://food.unl.edu/fnh/seasonal-ideas
Monthly themed bulletin boards, lesson plans, activities, and writing prompts https://www.theteacherscorner.net/monthly-resources/
Seasonal Themes with Resources http://www.theteachersguide.com/
Daily Feature Video https://www.brainpop.com/
Wonder of the Day http://wonderopolis.org/
This Month in History http://www.historyplace.com/specials/calendar/
Bible based object lessons, games, projects, and science experiments which will often correspond with themes and holidays http://www.christianitycove.com/
Vocabulary lists to go with just about any seasonal or holiday topic https://myvocabulary.com/
Seasonal and holiday themed math lessons and activities http://www.yummymath.com/
Monthly Science Calendar with resources http://thehomeschoolscientist.com/
Writing Prompt Calendar https://writeshop.com/tag/calendar/
Calendar Related Writing and Literacy Activities and Lesson Plans http://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/calendar-activities/
Science Activities for Every Month of the Year – http://igamemom.com/science-activities-for-every-month-of-the-year/
Crafts for holidays and themes http://www.artistshelpingchildren.org/
Special Days art lessons, craft projects, and activities http://kinderart.com/seasons/
Elementary level printables with monthly themes including holidays, statehood anniversaries, and president’s birthdays http://www.apples4theteacher.com/
Seasonal and holiday interactive games and printables http://www.primarygames.com/seasons/seasons.htm
I’m going to keep this handy resource list on the sidebar under the current Special Days icon link. And, if you need some help developing a special day study, just let me know!
Happy Learning!
betty jo
Special Days in August, 2016
History, Fireworks, Food, and Family Fun – A 4th of July Unit Study and Resource List
The 4th of July, America’s birthday, is a fantastic opportunity for family fun, fireworks, food, and summer school learning! I’ve found some great cross curricular and multi level resources to share as we celebrate, explore, create, learn, review, and play through a unit study.
American Revolution Timeline starting with The Stamp Act (1765) and ending with The Treaty of Paris (1783) http://www.ducksters.com/history/revolutionarywartimeline.php
Early America Resources – Documents, Photos, Biographies, and Videos https://www.varsitytutors.com/earlyamerica
Tour Revolutionary War Battlefields http://johnsmilitaryhistory.com/revvirtual.html
‘Revolutionary War’ Famous Paintings http://www.reenactmag.com/7-paintings-define-revolutionary-war/
Museum of the American Revolution – Impressive collection of objects, works of art, manuscripts, and printed works! http://www.amrevmuseum.org/collection
Interactive version of John Trumbull’s famous painting “The Declaration of Independence” http://www.quiz-tree.com/Declaration-of-Independence-Trumbull.html
Guns of the Revolutionary War http://www.reenactmag.com/important-guns-revolutionary-war/
History/Geography/Math Game Printable – “Find the Lost Redcoat” https://www.education.com/activity/article/The_lost_redcoat/
Liberty’s Kids is an entertaining and a favorite video resource for homeschooling families to introduce the events and people of the American Revolution. Here’s the link to the viewers guide for all 40 episodes. http://www.tv.com/shows/libertys-kids/episodes/
And, the link to the Liberty’s Kids Youtube channel and playlist. All the episodes are available to view. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5pJi9mLIy38m2e_u3sboKQ
Schoolhouse Rock 4th of July Cartoon https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmSVnP-oDRs
4th of July Vocabulary List and Word Puzzles https://myvocabulary.com/word-game-puzzles/july-4th-vocabulary/
July 4th Writing Prompts https://writeshop.com/july-4th-writing-activities/
Patriotic Writing Paper Printables http://www.busybeekidsprintables.com/Patriotic-Stationery.html
Calligraphy Resources https://www.franw.com/2015/08/calligraphy-resources.html
Patriotic Quotes https://www.countryliving.com/life/g1841/patriotic-quotes/
How to Speak Like a Colonist http://mrscagle.weebly.com/uploads/2/1/0/6/21062918/talk_like_a_colonist.pdf
Devotions, Quotes, Prayers, and Bible verses for Independence Day http://www.graspinggod.com/4th-of-july.html
Learn about manufacturing the American Flag history and videos https://annin.com/
“Why do we celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks?” According to Slate, that answer is , “Because John Adams wanted us to.” Link here for the full article. http://www.slate.com/articles/life/explainer/2012/07/history_of_fireworks_in_america_why_do_we_celebrate_fourth_of_july_with_fireworks_.html
“Boom Pow Whizz” is an awesome article explaining the history of fireworks with a couple of suggested art and language arts activities. https://antiquitynow.org/2013/07/03/boom-pow-whizzz-the-history-of-fireworks/
Fireworks and Flags Math Activities http://www.yummymath.com/2016/4th-of-july/
Learn about the chemistry of fireworks and use the handy chart of to identify what chemical compounds are used to produce different colors http://www.scifun.org/CHEMWEEK/fireworks/Fireworks2017.htm
And here’s more firework chemistry including a highlighted periodic table http://sciencenotes.org/firework-colors-chemistry/
And to find out more about the elements that make the firework colors http://www.rsc.org/periodic-table
What’s inside a firework and step by step explanation of what happens when lit http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/fireworks/anat_nf.html
How It’s Made – Fireworks https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hatDxw8-GRM
How It’s Made – Sparklers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LJ-lAANCw8
Steve Spangler’s – 4th of July Science https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZp7VTYJvQw
Homemade Fireworks Instructions (advanced and probably dangerous!) https://www.thoughtco.com/homemade-fireworks-projects-607331
BBQ and Grilling Safety Guide with kids https://www.ultramodern.com/how-to-grill-with-kids/
Kids Grilling Recipes and Tips http://www.kids-cooking-activities.com/easy-grilling-recipes.html
How Charcoal is Made Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pFLbB00ZJo
My family’s favorite 4th of July treat is this yummy and easy layered dessert using store bought angel food cake – cut into cubes, blueberries, sliced strawberries, and whipped cream.
Fun Learning Activities http://www.franw.com/2013/06/4th-of-july-americas-independence-day.html
4th of July themed Bible games and activities http://www.christianitycove.com/?s=4th+of+july
4th of July Party Games http://www.rd.com/advice/parenting/4th-of-july-10-fun-party-games/
4th of July themed Interactive Games http://www.primarygames.com/holidays/july4/games.htm
Patriotic Music for Kids http://www.rhapsody.com/artist/various-artists/album/americas-favorite-patriotic-songs-for-kids
And don’t forget to check with your local library! We found these …
And we don’t have to stop this study here! “The Pennsylvania State House bell was rung to summon the people of Philadelphia to gather for the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776. Though the bell wouldn’t be called the Liberty Bell until years later, the bell’s message of liberty certainly rang that day.”
The Liberty Bell – Learning Resource List https://stilllearningsomethingnew.com/2013/07/08/the-liberty-bell/
betty jo













