Patriotic Symbols and Practices
Session 4: The American Flag

• An American Flag
• A poster with the Pledge of Allegiance
• Red, white, blue construction paper
• Glue, scissors
• Crayons, markers
• Book about the American flag
• The words to “You’re a Grand Old Flag” on a poster or chart paper
• A recording of “You’re a Grand Old Flag” if available

1. Review the sessions “Symbols” and “The Pledge of Allegiance.”
   
   
2. Let the class talk about the design of the American flag and what the colors and symbols might mean.
   
   
3. Sing or listen to a recording of “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”
   
   
4. Read a book to students about the American flag. Discuss the book and other flag facts.
   There are 50 stars (one for each state).
   The thirteen stripes honor the original thirteen colonies.
   Each color has a special meaning.
   •    Red means courage. Discuss what this word means.
   •    Blue stands for justice. Discuss what this word means.
   •     White stands for liberty. Discuss what this word means.
   
   
5. Identify places where flags are displayed (schools, government buildings, parades) and the reason the flag is present in these places.
   
   
6. Have students construct their own American flags with construction paper. Red and white strips of construction paper may be pre-cut for students. Provide examples of ways to draw stars.
   
   
7. After flags are constructed, have a “mini-parade” around the classroom. Have students march and sing or listen to the song, “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” while waving their flags. Reinforce that they are showing their patriotism.