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Presidents and Their Pets - Normal and Weird Pets That Lived in the White House
Class Experience
US Grade 3 - 6
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum
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,...
16 lessons//16 Weeks
Week 1Lesson 1The White HouseIn 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.Week 2Lesson 2John Adams and Thomas JeffersonIn 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.Week 3Lesson 3James Madison, James Monroe, and John Quincy AdamsIn 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.Week 4Lesson 4Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, and William Henry HarrisonIn 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.Week 5Lesson 5John Tyler, James Knox Polk, and Zachary TaylorIn this lesson, we'll delve into the presidencies of John Tyler, James Knox Polk, and Zachary Taylor. Discover how these presidents navigated their time in office and the unique pets that accompanied them. From Tyler's canaries to Polk's horse and Taylor's cherished old army horse, we'll explore the fascinating stories and historical contexts behind their beloved animal companions.Week 6Lesson 6Millard Fillmore, Franklin Pierce, and James BuchananIn this lesson, we will explore the lives and presidencies of Millard Fillmore, Franklin Pierce, and James Buchanan. We'll delve into their unique contributions to American history, the challenges they faced during their terms, and the intriguing pets that accompanied them in the White House.Week 7Lesson 7Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, and Ulysses S. GrantIn this lesson, we'll delve into the lives of Presidents Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, and Ulysses S. Grant. We'll explore the unique challenges each faced during their presidencies, their significant achievements, and the pets that accompanied them in the White House. Through engaging stories and historical insights, students will gain a deeper understanding of these pivotal figures in American history and the loyal companions that brought them comfort and joy.Week 8Lesson 8Rutherford Birchard Hayes, James Abram Garfield, and Chester Alan ArthIn this lesson, we'll delve into the presidencies of Rutherford B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, and Chester A. Arthur. We'll explore their unique contributions to American history, the challenges they faced during their terms, and the fascinating stories of their time in the White House. From political reforms to personal anecdotes, you'll gain a deeper understanding of these often-overlooked leaders and the impact they had on the nation.Week 9Lesson 9Grover Cleveland, Benjamin Harrison IV, and William McKinley, JR.In this lesson, we'll delve into the lives and presidencies of Grover Cleveland, Benjamin Harrison IV, and William McKinley, Jr. We'll explore their unique journeys to the White House, the challenges they faced, and the significant events during their terms. We'll also discover the fascinating and sometimes surprising pets they had and how these companions played a role in their presidential lives.Week 10Lesson 10Theodore Roosevelt, JR., William Howard Taft, and Woodrow WilsonIn this lesson, we'll delve into the lives and presidencies of Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., William Howard Taft, and Woodrow Wilson. We'll explore their unique contributions to American history, their leadership styles, and the intriguing pets that accompanied them during their time in the White House. From Roosevelt's menagerie of animals to Taft's famous cow and Wilson's flock of sheep, students will discover the fascinating and often unexpected stories of these presidents and their beloved pets.Week 11Lesson 11Warren Gamaliel Harding, Calvin Coolidge, JR., and Herbert Clark HooIn this lesson, we will explore the presidencies of Warren G. Harding, Calvin Coolidge, and Herbert Hoover. We will delve into their unique leadership styles, significant achievements, and the challenges they faced during their time in office. Additionally, we'll uncover the intriguing stories of the pets that accompanied them in the White House, highlighting how these companions provided comfort and companionship during their presidencies.Week 12Lesson 12Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, and Dwight David EisenhowerIn this lesson, we'll delve into the lives and presidencies of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, and Dwight David Eisenhower. We'll explore their significant contributions, challenges, and the pets that accompanied them in the White House. Through engaging PowerPoint presentations, videos, and photos, students will gain a deeper understanding of these three influential leaders and their unique relationships with their pets.Week 13Lesson 13John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Lyndon Baines Johnson, and Richard Milhous NixonIn this lesson, we will explore the presidencies of John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Richard Nixon. We'll delve into their time in office, notable achievements, and the unique pets they had while living in the White House. Through engaging discussions, multimedia presentations, and intriguing anecdotes, students will gain a deeper understanding of these three influential leaders and the role their pets played in their presidential lives.Week 14Lesson 14Gerald Rudolph Ford, Jr., James Earl Carter, Jr., and Ronald Wilson ReaganIn this lesson, we will delve into the lives and presidencies of Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan. We'll explore their unique journeys to the White House, the significant events and challenges during their terms, and the personal stories that shaped their leadership. From Ford's efforts to restore trust in government, Carter's focus on human rights and energy policy, to Reagan's influential economic reforms and Cold War strategies.Week 15Lesson 15George Herbert Walker Bush, William Jefferson Clinton, and George WalIn this lesson, we'll delve into the presidencies of George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush. We'll explore their political achievements, personal stories, and the unique pets that accompanied them in the White House. Through engaging presentations, videos, and discussions, students will gain insights into the lives and legacies of these three leaders and their notable contributions to American history.Week 16Lesson 16Barack Hussein Obama II, Donald John Trump, and Joseph Robinette BideIn this lesson, we'll explore the presidencies of Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. We'll look at their significant policies, key moments during their terms, and the impact they had on the country. Through engaging presentations, videos, and discussions, students will gain a deeper understanding of these recent leaders and their contributions to American history.
- 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.
- Analyze Presidential Leadership: Students will analyze the leadership styles and decision-making processes of various presidents, understanding how personal and political factors influenced their presidencies.
- Engage in Critical Thinking: Students will develop critical thinking skills by asking questions, participating in discussions, and analyzing the impact of different presidents and their pets on American culture and politics.
- Develop Research Skills: Students will enhance their research skills by exploring historical documents, videos, and photographs related to the presidents and their pets.
- Foster Curiosity and Engagement: Students will cultivate a sense of curiosity and engagement with American history through interactive and fun learning activities.
- Improve Communication Skills: Students will improve their communication skills by sharing their insights and participating in discussions, presentations, and group activities.
- Recognize the Human Side of Presidents: Students will gain a more personal understanding of presidents by learning about their relationships with their pets and how these relationships provided comfort and companionship during their terms in office.
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.
0 - 1 hours per week outside of class
Homework
Frequency: includedFeedback: includedDetails: 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
Frequency: includedDetails:
Students will not need any supplies outside of the class.
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
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.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in English from Simmons University
Reflecting on my early years of learning, what stands out most in my memories are the subjects I found joy in, the teachers who made learning a delightful experience, and the freedom to explore topics that fascinated me. These are the very aspects...
Reviews
Group Class
$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