Symbols of Texas

Students take a poll to see how many official Texas state symbols they recognize. Then they state the main idea of each verse and the chorus of “Texas, Our Texas.” Next they restate the pledge to the Texas flag in their own words and explain the main idea. Finally they propose a new state symbol.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

1:1 Devices
Teacher Pack

The Pack contains associated resources for the learning experience, typically in the form of articles and videos. There is a teacher Pack (with only teacher information) and a student Pack (which contains only student information). As a teacher, you can toggle between both to see everything.

Here are the teacher pack items for Symbols of Texas:

Preview - Scene 1
Exploros Learnign Experience Scene Navigation


Overview

In this experience, students take a poll to see how many official Texas state symbols they recognize. Then they state the main idea of each verse and the chorus of “Texas, Our Texas.” Next they restate the pledge to the Texas flag in their own words and explain the main idea. Finally they propose a new state symbol.

Estimated duration: 35-45 minutes

 

Discovery Reading

A printable Discovery Reading is included in the student pack as a support for understanding the experience’s core content and concepts. This Discovery Reading is not necessary to complete the experience and serves as an optional support resource.

Vocabulary Words:

These vocabulary words are used in the experience or connect closely to the standards and content students examine. Students should understand these terms as they work through the experience.

  • state symbol: an official object, animal, song, or other sign chosen to represent Texas
  • anthem: an official song of a state or country; in this lesson, “Texas, Our Texas” is the Texas state song
  • recite: to say or repeat words aloud from memory or by reading them
  • pledge: a serious promise
  • allegiance: loyalty or faithfulness to a state, country, or flag
  • main idea: the most important point or message in a verse, chorus, or other text
 

Objectives

  • Identify state symbols such as the anthem, flower, and bird.
  • Analyze the Pledge to the Texas Flag.


Engage


When people think of the state of Texas, many images come to mind: cowboys, wide-open spaces, bluebonnets, TexMex food, football, and so much more. In this lesson, you will learn about some of the official symbols that represent the state of Texas.

Objectives

  • Identify state symbols such as the anthem, flower, and bird.
  • Analyze the Pledge to the Texas Flag.


the “Don’t Mess With Texas” logo

The “Don’t Mess with Texas” slogan began as a
Texas Department of Transportation campaign against litter.


Which of the following do you think are official symbols of the state of Texas?

A) dish: chili
B) fish: Guadalupe bass
C) footwear: cowboy boots
D) tree: pecan
E) knife: Bowie knife
F) small mammal: armadillo
G) pepper: jalapeno
H) sport: rodeo
I) bird: mockingbird
J) flower: bluebonnet

All of the above symbols have been officially approved. The Student Pack contains a link to a full list of symbols passed by the Texas legislature. Ask students if they disagree with any of the legislature’s choices, e.g., dish or sport.


When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

End of Preview
The Complete List of Learning Experiences in Texas Culture Unit.

Cultural Life in Texas

Symbols of Texas

Texas Culture: Vocabulary

Famous Texans

Texas Culture: Unit Assessment

The Role of Active Citizens
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