Christmas History
Use this Holiday as Part of a Social Studies Lesson Plan
Students learn the history of Christmas trees, Christmas music, Christmas presents, and much more.
Christmas is a tradition that began with the birth of Jesus, thousand of years ago. During those years, Christmas traditions have been added, extended and deleted. Christmas is known for the birth of Jesus, family gatherings, great food, Santa Claus, and presents. Parts of these traditions have been accepted by millions of people world wide; not all are Christians.
Big business began to alter the Christmas tradition and added their spin to sell products. As well, family, economics and geographic locations had an impact on the traditions that would evolve or be forgotten. For many schools, the main theme for December is Christmas. Christmas is rich in tradition and history and is a great compliment to a social studies lesson.
Engaging students in a history topic can be difficult, but Christmas will excite students to learn about its history. Students who are struggling with the reality of Santa Claus will appreciate uncovering the facts like a spy and make a decision based on their information.
Christmas Social Studies Lesson
Place students in groups of four to research a part of the Christmas tradition. Divide the history of Christmas into main categories and have students subdivide the category accordingly. History of the Christmas tree, history of Christmas food, history of Christmas music, history of Christmas figures, and history of Christmas presents are sample categories pertaining to the history of Christmas. Each category can be further divided for students to research the major and minor history facts.
History of Christmas Tree Sample Questions
The Christmas tree has been a symbol for many years, but where did it begin? Was the Christmas tree always a part of the Christmas tradition? Who began the tradition and what is its history in becoming a part of the Canadian history. As well, what types of Christmas trees were first used and why do we use evergreen trees as a Christmas symbol? As well, who decorated the first tree and who invented the ornaments and Christmas lights?
The above sample illustrates how one question will yield more questions. Christmas is filled with a rich history; often kids and adults participate in the tradition but are unaware or unsure of how the tradition developed.
Students are to write a paper on one part in regards to the history of Christmas.
History of Christmas Research Paper
Students will decide on what part of the Christmas tradition they would like to discover. Next step is for students to write several questions to be answered based on their Christmas category.
Students will answer their questions and include photographs or drawings to illustrate their findings. Students may show how the Christmas tree has evolved over the years. Today, you can buy pink feather Christmas trees.
Students will record their information and illustrate it in a book to allow others to read the information.
Teacher may choose to have students read the book to their fellow classmates or have an open house where students leisurely read each others books.
Christmas is a wonderful tool for learning. The last week of school before the holiday break is a difficult time to keep students' attention, so allow students to learn about Christmas in an informal way and to educate their fellow classmates on their findings.
