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Coming to America

What is life like for newcomers to the United States? Students will explore the history of immigration to the US as well as what it might have been like for new arrivals.

Lesson Plan

Supplies Needed

Gather all the supplies needed to bring your craft ideas to life! From paints and markers to glue and scissors, our crafts section has everything to spark creativity and make every project truly special.

  • Craft Materials
  • Craft Sticks
  • Recycled Cardboard Box
  • Tape

Steps

  • Step 1

    As of the 2020 census, Native Americans make up just under 3% of the population of the United States. That means that most of the country is made up of immigrants or descendants of people from other countries. Have students explore the history of immigration in the United States. Where did many immigrants come from and when? What prompted their desire to move? What was required for them to enter? Where did they settle? What was life like in the past for newcomers to the country? Is it similar for people coming today?

  • Step 2

    Ask students to create a diorama that depicts a day in the life of new arrivals to the country. They might choose a German family who came in through Ellis Island in the 1900s, a Mexican family arriving in 1920, a Chinese family who arrived via Angel Island in the 1930s, a Syrian family who arrived in 2015, or anyone else. Have them use a recycled box, such as a shoe box, as the base. They can illustrate the background on construction paper then glue or tape it into the box. They might use items such as craft sticks or clothes pins to create people, and they can cut out other features to place into the scene.

  • Step 3

    Have students present their dioramas and discuss the country of origin of the family, the time period depicted, and what life might have been like for them as newcomers.

Standards

SS: Individuals, Groups, and Institutions: Examine various institutions that affect one’s life and influence people’s thinking and how they advocate for ideas they believe in. 

SS: Individuals, Groups, and Institutions: Explore ways in which institutions (including voluntary associations/organizations, health care networks, etc.) are created to respond to changing individual and group needs. 

Adaptations

Have students choose a location and a time period to further explore. Then have them write a journal entry as if they were a person from the country they chose beginning a new life in the United States. How is life different from their original country? What new foods do they enjoy? What is it like to navigate life in a new language? 

The renowned architect I. M. Pei came to the United States from China via Angel Island in 1935. Because he was from a wealthy background, he was only held there for a day; however, it was not as easy for others, mainly Chinese and Japanese, who came through Angel Island. Have students explore the history of Asian immigration through Angel Island, which operated from 1910-1940. Have them also learn about the life and works of I. M. Pei.