Teaching 9/11

Where were you when the 9/11 attacks occurred? Personally, I was sitting in my 10th-grade government class. My teacher turned on the TV, and I remember watching the 2nd plane hitting the tower. At this time, I was living in New York, so I had classmates whose parents worked in the World Trade Center. Our classroom phone rang, and classmates whose parents were working in the Twin Towers went to the office. Honestly, I still twitch when I hear a classroom phone ringing. My mind thinks back to the 10 people in my town who lost their lives during the tragic attacks. So, I promised to always focus on teaching 9/11 no matter the subject I taught. By using the September 11th and 9/11 Lesson, students understand the devastation and gain an appreciation for our freedom.

Importance of Teaching 9/11

It is crazy to think of 9/11 as a historical event. It all feels so fresh in my mind. I still remember vivid details about where I was, who I was with, and our emotions. However, our students do not have the same connection. Many of our students were not even born when the terrorist attacks occurred. This means they do not have firsthand experience of how this single day changed so much about our lives today. So, students must have lessons to help them understand the significance. They need to know why it happened, honor the lives tragically lost, and see the aftermath. Thankfully, the September 11th and 9/11 Lesson is ready when teaching 9/11. Since this is such an emotional day, the lesson takes care of the lesson for you.

Building an Understanding

I can ask all of my colleagues where they were on 9/11, and they can recall exactly what they were doing. Since this is impossible with our students, we must build their understanding.

So, I start by showing a video telling the story of 9/11. This is a great way to hook students into the lesson and help them understand the why behind it. Then, we begin the September 11th and 9/11 Lesson.

Teaching 9/11 with September 11th and 9/11 Lesson

Honestly, this lesson does a fantastic job of helping students understand all of the aspects of 9/11. It is an editable three-day lesson full of activities, notes, handouts, and communication with parents. There is even a complete lesson plan and answer keys to make teaching 9/11 memorable and impactful for all.

Students will begin by reading a 9/11 handout to see important details and dates. Then, they will explore the history of events using a timeline activity. This includes the attacks on the World Trade Center and Al Qaeda attacks around the world. Additionally, we focus on the Iraq war and the death of Osama Bin Laden. Honestly, I am always so shocked that students do not know any of the history!

After the timeline, we analyze political cartoons on 9/11. The cartoons are controversial and interesting about that day. Students always have an amazing discussion while examining them!

In addition to these activities, students will learn about the “Man in the Red Bandana.” They will even interview their family members to discuss what they remember about the day. Honestly, I loved building this home-to-school connection when teaching 9/11! It is a powerful way for students and parents to connect with each other.

To conclude the unit, we discuss ways we have memorialized 9/11 and the importance of the memorials. This is a remarkable way to ensure students know we will never forget 9/11.

Teaching 9/11 is a tough topic. It is full of emotions and tragedy. However, it is crucial that students learn about the day that changed the world forever. Thankfully, the September 11th and 9/11 Lesson has everything teachers need! The powerful activities will ensure students gain a deep understanding and compassion for 9/11.

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