In honor of the soldiers who have so bravely sacrificed their lives  for our country, we are proud to share a lesson that focuses on a case study for their courage: Vietnam. In a moving opening to this lesson, students view placards as if they were at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC and read [...]

Many social studies teachers ask their students to watch the State of the Union address. It is an important civic function that, unfortunately, many do not exercise. TCI would like to encourage students to become active listeners during President Obama’s speech to the nation on February 12th. To help, teachers can use this activity sheet.  [...]

Why do we celebrate Presidential inaugurations?  In an Experiential Exercise, students assume the roles of party goers attending an inaugural ball. Each student is armed with one interesting detail or fact regarding Presidential inaugurations. In a reception, students mingle and share their facts while learning from others.  Try this free lesson out to deepen your [...]

Using primary sources with students these days is so much easier thanks to great sites like http://www.digitalvaults.org/ by the National Archives.  Like any other tool though, primary sources must be strategically used.  Here are four tips to keep in mind every time you get ready to use primary sources with students. Choose Wisely- Always think [...]

EdCamp Cincinnati took place on Saturday, Oct. 20th.  I was there to see and participate in this wonderful event.  My curiosity towards this growing movement was fueled by so many people I come into contact via the #sschat hashtag on Twitter.  The setup was really laid back and very inviting for teachers.  Like TCI does [...]

The first Tuesday after the first Monday in November.  We know it by it’s official name and many nicknames too.  The networks all have a special, uber branded name for it with big graphics and music to boot their bumpers into segments.  Whatever the name we call it, elections in America is what gives new [...]

This was the PPT used on 9/26/2012 for our webinar on web and device apps you can use inside your class.  See an online magnifying glass used to highlight great photos on Fotopedia.  See a great discussion starter app for iOS, Android, and Fire devices called Show of Hands.  We also look at such apps [...]

Election day is rapidly approaching.  Nominating conventions are complete.  Now it’s up to the voters to decide whether President Obama should be reelected or be replaced by Governor Romney.   TCI has created two campaign issue activities you can do with your students.  One activity is built around the words/statements of the campaigns.  The other [...]

With this being an election year, it’d be a shame to pass up an opportunity to highten students awareness of how presidential elections are waged.  We have created a new game for you to play with your secondary students that we think you’ll love.  Everything y0u need to play the game including a lesson is [...]

Get your students and their  family to join in as the Democrats and Republicans nominate their candidate for President of the United States! Print this sheet out and make a copy for each student to take home before each acceptance speech.  Use it as a civics assignment, homework, or just to get their geek on! [...]