Summer Vacation, is that you? While some students finished up the school year at the end of May, we know that so many teachers will be hard at work until the end of June. The end of the school year has kids and teachers buzzing, but it’s still important to keep students reading and learning. Here are 6 Holidays and Units to help you finish the wildest of school years on a strong note.
June 3: World Bicycle Day
With summer practically here, many kids will be grabbing their bicycles and tricycles for a true sense of freedom. Maybe they’ll even get to drop the training wheels for the first time. As part of our Technology Category, we have an entire Unit all about Bicycles. Your students will learn about how they work, where they came from, and all of the different uses that they have today. Don’t forget your helmet!
June 6 – Allied Forces Land on Normandy Beaches
More commonly known as D-Day, in 1944, American, British, and Canadian troops began the operation to liberate the Western Front of Europe during World War II. With about 2,000 ships silently crossing the English Channel, this was also the largest seaborne invasion in history. To honor the brave men and women who fought for freedom, have your students read from our World War II Unit. The 7 Topics discuss the catalyst, why the United States entered the war, and how the Allies ultimately claimed victory in Europe and the Pacific.
June 10 – Benjamin Franklin Conducts Kite Experiment
Benjamin Franklin was a writer, inventor, postmaster, scientist, and politician. One of his most well-known stories sounds more like a tall tale than fact. On this date in 1752, he and his son flew a kite during a thunderstorm, collecting an electrical charge from the lightning. This proved his theory that lightning was a form of electricity. Our Benjamin Franklin Unit teaches about the eventful life of this American patriot, including his life as a printer and his many inventions. Your students will love learning more about the man on the 100 dollar bill. For a truly cross-curricular experience that combines American History and Science, your students can also read from our Electricity Unit.
June 14: Flag Day
The United States flag is one of the most distinctive American symbols. It represents the country we are now as well as the country we originally were. Officially, it was adopted on June 14th, 1777. Legend has it that the first flag was sewn by a woman named Betsy Ross. Unfortunately, there is no proof of that, but her name is forever intertwined with our country’s history. You can learn more about her and other incredible women in our Revolutionary Women Unit.
June 16: Roller Coast Makes Debut in America
Some of your students may already be daydreaming about visiting amusement parks over summer break. The most exciting attraction is always the roller coaster. In 1884, the country’s very first roller coaster opened at Coney Island in New York. It traveled only six miles per hour which pales in comparison to the rides of today. What makes them so thrilling is the feeling of flying. Students will read about the law of gravity in our Gravity Unit and how engineers have learned to harness it to build wild rides.
June 19th: Juneteenth
Abraham Lincoln once said, “Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves.” Although his Emancipation Proclamation went into effect in 1863, it took two more years to be honored nationwide. Today, we celebrate June 19th to commemorate the end of slavery in Texas, the last hold out. Finally, in 1865, all men and women were free. In our Civil Rights Unit, your students will read more about this deeply important holiday and how the quest for equality continues today.
