Lesson Plan - Standing Tall

Watch the Video
Build important background knowledge by watching the video “Remembering 9/11” as a class. 

Preview Word to Know
Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Word to Know.

• optimism

Set a Purpose for Reading
As students read, have them identify what makes One World Trade Center an American symbol.

1. Based on the article, why do you think One World Trade Center was built close to where the Twin Towers once stood?
Based on the article, you can guess that One World Trade Center was built close to where the Twin Towers once stood because the building was constructed in memory of the Twin Towers, which were part of the original World Trade Center. The Twin Towers were destroyed by terrorists on September 11, 2001.
^{(RI.3.1 Text Evidence)}

2. Why was Frank Mahan interviewed for the article?
Frank Mahan was interviewed for the article because he’s one of the people who designed One World Trade Center.
^{(RI.3.6 Author’s Purpose)}

3. What might be another good title for the article? Explain your answer.
Sample response: Another good title for the article might be “A Special Building” because One World Trade Center has a special place in U.S. history.
^{(RI.3.2 Main Idea)}

FEATURED SKILL: Paired Texts
Distribute the skill builder “American Symbols.” Have students read about several U.S. symbols and then answer the questions. Extend the activity by challenging students to name other American symbols (e.g., the Liberty Bell, Mount Rushmore, Uncle Sam)
^{(RI.3.9 Paired Texts)}