The First Thanksgiving

5th GradeSocial Studies45 min

aligned to Thanksgiving And Early Encounters Between Europeans &

Learning Objective

I can describe the interactions between Native Americans and Pilgrims during the first Thanksgiving.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

7 min

The First Thanksgiving: What Really Happened

Uncivil History

Guided Notes

9 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • At the start of the 17th century, southern New England was home to a variety of busy communities within several confederations known as the People of the First Light, who called their home the Dawn Land.

  • The Separatists, later known as Pilgrims, made a peace treaty with the Wampanoag ensuring mutual protection if attacked by enemies.

  • The first Thanksgiving was a three-day feast to celebrate the bountiful harvest with Massasoit and 90 of his warriors.

Practice

14 min

9 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Describe two ways that the Wampanoag and the Pilgrims helped each other during their first year together in Plymouth.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

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