Do your students understand why we pledge allegiance?

At my school, we say the Pledge of Allegiance to begin each day. Many schools do this, but some do it only on major holidays -- like Patriot Day and around Memorial Day. Some schools say it only on the first day of the week.

What has always frustrated me as a teacher is how many students give so little regard to saying the Pledge. Some don't understand its meaning; they also have little or no comprehension of the great history of the flag. They slouch, mumble or stare into space, while their peers pledge.

This video, produced by the History Channel, provides an excellent, brief history of the flag. Share this with your students, no matter what age, and discuss the tradition of the flag and why we pledge our allegiance to it.

Then, encourage your students to stand straight and pledge with pride throughout the year.


Cross-posted at Learn it in 5

Don't miss Mark's book ROLE Reversal: Achieving Uncommonly Excellent Results in the Student-Centered Classroom, now available in the ASCD store, Barnes & Noble and at Amazon.com