Daily Classroom Kickoff Resources: October 16-20
Each week we’re excited to provide you with a fresh set of classroom resources designed to spark curiosity, foster creativity, and ignite meaningful discussions in your K-12 classrooms.
We offer a curated list of holidays and special events, "This Week in History" highlights, and engaging writing prompts, all thoughtfully designed to enrich your lesson plans and captivate the young minds you nurture.
Holidays/Special Events
October 16 - World Food Day
World Food Day aims to raise awareness of global food security issues. In the classroom, students can learn about food sustainability, explore international cuisines, or discuss ways to reduce food waste.
October 17 - International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty promotes efforts to overcome poverty worldwide. In the classroom, students can discuss the causes and consequences of poverty, learn about initiatives addressing poverty, or engage in a poverty simulation activity.
October 18 - Alaska Day
Alaska Day commemorates the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States in 1867. In class, students can explore the history and geography of Alaska, learn about indigenous cultures, or engage in Alaskan-themed art and literature.
October 19 - Evaluate Your Life Day
Evaluate Your Life Day encourages self-reflection and goal setting. In the classroom, students can discuss the importance of setting goals, create vision boards, or write personal reflections about their aspirations.
October 20 - International Sloth Day
International Sloth Day celebrates these slow-moving creatures. In the classroom, students can learn about sloths' unique adaptations, study rainforest ecosystems, or engage in a sloth-themed art project.
This Week in History
October 16, 1962 - Cuban Missile Crisis Begins
On this day, the Cuban Missile Crisis began when President John F. Kennedy was informed of the presence of nuclear missiles in Cuba. Discuss the significance of this event during the Cold War and its resolution.
October 17, 1979 - Mother Teresa Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her humanitarian work. Explore her contributions to society, her dedication to the poor and sick, and the impact of her actions.
October 18, 1867 - Alaska's Transfer from Russia to the United States
Alaska's transfer from Russia to the United States on Alaska Day marked a significant historical event. Discuss the reasons behind this transfer and the impact on Alaska's history and culture.
October 19, 1987 - Black Monday Stock Market Crash
On Black Monday in 1987, global stock markets experienced a significant crash. Explore the causes of this financial crisis and the lessons learned from it.
October 20, 1968 - Jackie K. Cooper Becomes the Youngest Astronaut
Jackie K. Cooper became the youngest astronaut to go into space. Discuss the significance of space exploration and the achievements of young astronauts.
Daily Writing Prompts
"On World Food Day, research a country's cuisine and prepare a short presentation to share with the class."
"For International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, write about a person who has inspired you through their efforts to alleviate poverty."
"Celebrate Alaska Day by creating a poster highlighting Alaska's unique geography and wildlife."
"On Evaluate Your Life Day, set three goals for the school year and explain how you plan to achieve them."
"Imagine you're a wildlife photographer capturing the daily life of a sloth in the rainforest. Write a journal entry describing your experience."