Presidents and Their Pets - Normal and Weird Pets That Lived in the White House
Which president had an alligator living in a White House bathroom? We will learn about all the Presidents and introduce the animals (weird, scary, and normal) they had living in the White House. This is a 16-week semester course.
Paul Kopulos, MFA
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(154)
Star Educator
What's included
16 live meetings
13 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. At the end of each class, I give three optional extra learning assignments. The homework could be anything from writing about the animals we learned about in that class. It could be a poem or short story about the presidents. It may be to design the White House or create a zoo for all the president's animals in Minecraft. Not each student will be doing the same assignment. Kids will enjoy learning more if they are a part of creating the homework.Certificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
US Grade 3 - 6
Presidents come in all shapes and sizes, and so do the pets they've had while living in the White House. Being a president is incredibly stressful, and having a pet can make the job a bit easier. But these pets aren't always what you'd expect. Some are gifts from other countries' leaders, while others might be acquired in unusual ways, like accidentally crossing into someone else's territory. And it's not just the presidents—sometimes the First Ladies have their own pets too. In this class, we'll explore the history of each president and the pets they had while living in the White House. Using PowerPoint presentations, videos, and photos, we'll dive into the fun, exciting, and sometimes weird stories behind these presidential pets. Students are encouraged to ask questions and participate in discussions throughout the class. This is a unique opportunity to learn fascinating facts about our presidents and their furry, feathered, or scaly companions.
Learning Goals
Understand Presidential History: Students will learn about the historical context, significant events, and key policies of each president covered in the course.Explore Presidential Pets: Students will discover the diverse range of pets that have lived in the White House, including their origins and significance.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum16 Lessons
over 16 WeeksLesson 1:
The White House
In our first lesson, we'll dive into the history of the White House and the presidency, exploring the origins of the president's residence and the early days of the nation's leaders. Our journey begins with George Washington, focusing on the unique pets he kept and their role in his life. This lesson sets the foundation for our series on the fascinating pets that have added charm and companionship to the White House over the years. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
John Adams and Thomas Jefferson
In this lesson, we will explore the lives and presidencies of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, two of America's Founding Fathers. We'll examine their unique contributions to the nation, their famous friendship and rivalry, and the pets that accompanied them during their time in the White House. Through engaging presentations, videos, and discussions, students will gain a deeper understanding of these influential leaders and their impact on American history. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
James Madison, James Monroe, and John Quincy Adams
In this lesson, we'll delve into the presidencies of James Madison, James Monroe, and John Quincy Adams. We'll explore their unique contributions to American history, their leadership styles, and the pets that accompanied them during their time in the White House. Through engaging presentations, videos, and photos, we'll uncover fascinating stories about these early American leaders and their animal companions. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, and William Henry Harrison
In this lesson, we'll delve into the presidencies of Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, and William Henry Harrison. Discover the unique pets they had, the roles these animals played in their lives, and the interesting stories behind them. From Jackson's fiery personality to Van Buren's sophisticated demeanor, and Harrison's brief tenure, we'll explore how their pets provided companionship and reflected their owners' characteristics. 50 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
The course on the history of U.S. presidents and their pets offers engaging content focusing on both the professional achievements and personal lives of presidents, highlighting their unique relationships with pets. The course uses age-appropriate discussions, interactive materials such as PowerPoint presentations, videos, and photos to create an engaging learning environment.
Supply List
Students will not need any supplies outside of the class.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined April, 2020
4.9
154reviews
Star Educator
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in English from Simmons University
In addition to my expertise in literary education, I design and teach specialized history classes on diverse topics. These include the complete history of LGBTQIA+, the importance of Civil War Drummer Boys, and a comprehensive study of U.S. presidents and their pets. I also offer courses like "Before Happily Ever After: Unveiling the Dark Origins of Fairy Tales" and a 7-week novel study and movie adaptation course on "The Hunger Games." My courses are thoughtfully crafted to not only educate but also to inspire curiosity and encourage critical thinking.
I am dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive and discover the joy of learning. Regular updates and summaries of student progress keep parents informed and involved in their child's educational journey.Reviews
Live Group Course
$18
weekly or $275 for 16 classes1x per week, 16 weeks
50 min
Completed by 12 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-13
3-9 learners per class
