First Day Ideas
(or Emergency Substitute Ideas)
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First impressions are important, so the first day is crucial in any class. We want our students to know what the class is about and what a day in class might be like. We want them to form a good attitude yet know that the class is a serious one.

Some experts recommend having students learn the rules the first day; however, we may be reluctant to do that just yet as class schedules and attendance are often unstable on the first day. Others suggest get-to-know-you games. By high school, students have frequently seen most of these games. So, let’s jump right into the subject, although not a specific unit, on the first day. What follows is a menu of activities related to U.S. history.

At the end of a class period of any combination of these activities, ask the students what the activities have told them about the class. Some possible answers are: they will write: they will work both alone and in groups; they will share the outcome of their work with others; there are expectations for writing responses; it is about U.S. history; they will read the words of famous people; they will make personal connections to what they study.

Teachers also learn from these tasks. You will see which students are willing to share; how much the students already know; the students’ enthusiasm for the subject; and the writing and analytical ability of each individual. If you turn any of the activities into a homework assignment, then you will also know by the next day the work ethic and responsibility of each student.

Here is a list of the activities. Each lesson also has a page of explanation for the procedure. I hope you will find them creative and practical enough to give at least some of them a try. I have used all of these through the years with good results.

1. Landmarks and Symbols of the United States
2. Six Degrees of Separation
3. Mystery Person in U.S. History
4. Wrack-Your-Brain Lists
5. Quotes about History
6. Textbook Scavenger Hunt
7. What does this Artifact Say about U.S. Culture?
8. Choose a Topic to Discuss
9. Sources of History—Primary or Secondary?
10. What Do You Remember?