🌍 Social StudiesGrade 2Lesson 4
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Identify National Symbols
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Learning Objectives
- 1Identify important national symbols
- 2Describe what each one represents
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Mini Lesson
Have you ever seen a flag flying high or a big gold eagle on a coin? Those are national symbols — images and objects that stand for the whole country!
What is a national symbol?
- A national symbol is an image, object, or animal that officially represents a country.
- Symbols remind citizens of their country’s values, history, and pride.
- Example: The US flag is seen at post offices, government buildings, and sporting events.
Flag and anthem
- The American flag has 13 red and white stripes (for the original 13 colonies) and 50 stars (one for each state). It represents unity and freedom.
- The National Anthem ("The Star-Spangled Banner") is the official song of the United States, sung to honor the country.
Animals and landmarks as symbols
- The bald eagle is the national bird of the United States. It represents strength and freedom and appears on coins, the Great Seal, and government buildings.
- The Statue of Liberty is a famous landmark in New York. It represents freedom and welcome to people from all over the world.
- The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia represents freedom and independence. It was rung to announce important events in American history.
The Great Seal and the motto
- The Great Seal of the United States is an official symbol used on government documents. It features the bald eagle.
- The national motto is "In God We Trust," which appears on US coins and currency.
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Ask yourself: "What does this symbol look like, and what important idea does it stand for?"
Vocabulary
National symbol
An image or object that represents a whole countrye.g. The American flag is a national symbol.
Flag
A piece of cloth with patterns that stands for a countrye.g. The flag has 13 stripes and 50 stars.
Anthem
The official song of a countrye.g. We sang the national anthem before the game.
Bald eagle
The national bird of the United Statese.g. The bald eagle stands for strength and freedom.
Liberty Bell
A famous bell in Philadelphia that stands for freedome.g. The Liberty Bell rang to share important news long ago.
Freedom
The right to live, speak, and choose for yourselfe.g. Many U.S. symbols stand for freedom.
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