Overview:
In this unit, students will embark on a journey across the United States to explore some of our nation’s most unique and historically significant national monuments. These special places are preserved for their natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the fascinating stories they tell about our country’s history, geology, and the people who lived and worked in these lands. From ancient caves and towering redwoods to volcanic landscapes and historic communities, each monument offers a window into different aspects of America's past and present.
 
What We’ll Be Learning: 
Throughout this unit, students will learn about the curious and creative individuals who created these, their national importance, understand the natural processes that shape these unique places, and explore the lives of the people and animals connected to them. Through hands-on activities, students will dive into geology, biology, history, and cultural studies, gaining insights into what makes each monument a treasured part of our heritage.
 
Unit Overview:
Jewel Cave (South Dakota): Students will explore one of the longest cave systems in the world, learning about the geological processes that created Jewel Cave and the delicate mineral formations within it. We’ll study cave ecosystems and learn how caves provide habitat for specialized creatures that thrive in darkness.
Muir Woods (California): In this ancient redwood forest, students will discover the importance of conservation and explore the unique environment that supports some of the tallest trees on Earth. We’ll learn about forest ecosystems, the role of fog, and how the legacy of John Muir helped shape modern conservation efforts.
Mount Rushmore (South Dakota): We’ll examine the history and symbolism behind this iconic monument, exploring why these four presidents were chosen and the engineering feats that went into carving the massive granite faces. Students will also discuss differing perspectives on the monument’s location in the Black Hills, which are sacred to Native American tribes.
Statue of Liberty (New York): As a symbol of freedom and hope, the Statue of Liberty represents ideals of liberty and friendship. Students will learn about the statue’s origins, symbolism, and the engineering challenges of constructing and transporting this colossal copper statue from France to the United States.
John Day Fossil Beds (Oregon): This fossil-rich site offers a glimpse into Earth’s ancient past. Students will study how fossils form, uncover what life was like millions of years ago, and explore how climate and ecosystems have changed over time. The vibrant layers in the Painted Hills reveal millions of years of geological history.
Pullman National Monument (Illinois): This historic site was once a model town for railroad workers. Students will examine the lives of Pullman’s workers, the famous 1894 Pullman Strike, and the impact of labor movements in shaping workers' rights. We’ll discuss the social and economic factors that influenced life in this planned community.
Aniakchak National Monument (Alaska): Aniakchak is one of the most remote and geologically active national monuments, with a massive volcanic caldera formed by a violent eruption thousands of years ago. Students will explore volcanic landscapes, the unique challenges of this wilderness, and the ways plants and animals adapt to Alaska’s harsh climate.
Bandelier National Monument (New Mexico): In this archaeological treasure, students will learn about the ancestral Pueblo people who once lived in the cliffs and canyons of Bandelier. We’ll study ancient dwellings, petroglyphs, and the ways the Pueblo adapted to their desert environment, gaining insight into the cultures and histories of Native American communities.