This is the last of 8 lessons in the text unit series for The Great Seal of the United States by Norman Pearl, focusing on pages 8-19 and 23. In this lesson, students will analyze the symbols used to create the Great Seal and will use the knowledge learned to deepen their understanding of symbols—what they represent and why they are chosen. As a culminating activity, students will develop a personal great seal by writing an expository essay that explains the symbols chosen to represent the country and why.

This ELA/Civics Integrated Text Unit is designed to support students with the integration of civics into the ELA classroom through the reading and studying of Norman Pearl’s book The Great Seal of the United States. Students will identify new vocabulary, describe both Florida and USA seals, as well as the importance of national symbols and their meaning. Using timelines, graphic organizers, worksheets, and other activities, they will connect these symbols to other documents like the Declaration of Independence and the understanding of unalienable rights. Each lesson in this series leads to a culminating activity in which students will use their knowledge and understanding of symbols and relevant details to create their own Great Seal.

This resource uses a book that you will need to obtain before implementing the resource.