Lesson Plan

The First Thanksgiving Feast for Grades 3-5

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Scholars examine the first Thanksgiving through books and interviews while they complete a KWL chart. Pretending they are part of the feast, learners craft a scrapbook page that features images related to their experience. Pupils reflect on and discuss their new-found knowledge in preparation for the lesson's final assessment. Learners show what they know by way of a writing assignment—an argumentative, expository, or narrative essay. 

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CCSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • Display completed scrapbook pages on a Thanksgiving-themed focus wall
  • Invite class members to share their writing assignment with their peers using a cooperative learning strategy such as Mix, Pair, Share
  • If applicable to your grade level's standards, combine the lesson with a unit on the American Colonies
Classroom Considerations
  • The third lesson of three takes a close look at the first Thanksgiving
  • Requires devices with internet access, handouts, and scrapbook materials
Pros
  • Offers optional setups and materials
  • Lists two lesson extensions
Cons
  • The lesson focuses on the history of the Pilgrim's first Thanksgiving, not the Native American's.