Thanksgiving Informative Essay

5th GradeELA25 min

aligned to Ccss.ela-literacy.w.5.2

Learning Objective

I can write an informative essay about Thanksgiving with a clear topic with evidence.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

6 min

How Did Thanksgiving Begin and Why is it a National Holiday? | History | ClickView

ClickView

Guided Notes

5 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • In 1621, the Wampanoag helped the Pilgrims grow crops and survive the harsh winter, which led to a harvest feast.

  • President Lincoln made Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863 to help unite people after the Civil War, and President Roosevelt set the date as the fourth Thursday in November in 1941.

  • Common Thanksgiving foods like turkey, corn, and cranberry sauce originated in the Americas and have been used by Native American tribes for thousands of years.

Practice

10 min

3 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Write a short informative essay about Thanksgiving. Your essay should include a clear topic sentence, and at least three pieces of evidence from the video to support your topic. Make sure to include information about both the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts