veterans day assignment high school

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8 High School Veterans Day Activities and Lesson Plan Ideas

On November 11, we celebrate Veterans Day. It’s our chance to salute the 18 million veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and show our appreciation for the sacrifices they made to protect our country.

Many people confuse Veterans Day with Memorial Day. While Memorial Day honors soldiers who died in service to the United States, Veterans Day honors all who served—both living and dead—in the U.S. Armed Forces. In the U.S., we show our respect for veterans with an official wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, in Virginia, and with parades and other celebrations across the country.

The coronavirus pandemic may change the way we participate in these events. The biggest Veterans Day parade in New York, for instance, will be aired on TV and online. But it won’t change the spirit of these events. Our Veterans Day activities for high school students can make sure of that. They will give your students a chance to say “thank you” while ensuring our veterans get the acknowledgement they deserve.

Veterans Day Activities for High School Students

Read on for Veterans Day activities that will bring the experiences of service members to life and help high school students understand why it’s so important to never forget those who risked their lives to keep us safe.

1. Write a Letter to a Veteran

Many veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. As a group, veterans also have a high rate of unemployment and suicide. Veterans, and even deployed service members who spend time away from family, appreciate heartfelt letters expressing appreciation for their service. According to Operation Gratitude , the letters are the most cherished items in the care packages the group sends. One enlisted man serving aboard the USS Ross in Spain called the letters a “ray of sunshine for the crew” after a tough deployment and mandatory quarantine due to the coronavirus pandemic. You can sign up with Operation Gratitude for a letter-writing toolkit and mailing instructions. If distance learning makes it difficult to collect handwritten letters from students, you can always have them write a message online . Operation Gratitude will print the message on a postcard and send it.

2. Read Books About Soldiers' Experiences

Have students read the first chapter of author Tim O’Brien’s book of short stories about the Vietnam War, The Things They Carried . Start a discussion: What are some of the physical objects the soldiers carry? What do the objects tell you about the characters, their emotional states, and the war’s impact? Point out O’Brien’s use of repetition as a storytelling device. What affect does the repetition have on you?

To get a sense of what veterans today carry with them from their time in the military, have students listen to an NPR interview with Tim O’Brien on the 20th anniversary of the publication of The Things They Carried . One caller shared that he carries “shrapnel in my leg and bitterness.” O’Brien shared his own burdens: “I carry the memories of the ghosts of a place called Vietnam—the people of Vietnam, my fellow soldiers. More importantly, I carry the weight of responsibility, and a sense of abiding guilt.” Have students write a paragraph describing how these veterans' experiences are reflected in The Things They Carried .

Additional reading for high schoolers on soldiers' experience and the impact of war:

• The Heart You Carry Home by Jennifer Miller
• Soldier from the War Returning: The Greatest Generation's Troubled Homecoming from World War II by Thomas Childers
• The Last of the Doughboys: The Forgotten Generation and Their Forgotten World War by Richard Rubin
• The Slopes of War by Norah Perez
• The War to End All Wars: World War I by Russell Freedman
• The Slaves' War: The Civil War in the Words of Former Slaves by Andrew Ward

3. Bring a Soldier's Story to Life

Your students can make history! Invite them to participate in the Veterans History Project , which collects and preserves firsthand remembrances of U.S. military veterans from World War I through more recent conflicts. Students ages 15 and older can volunteer to interview veterans and record their reflections on military service and its impact for future generations. Students can interview friends or family members who have served in the military or contact a local veterans organization, senior center, or retirement community to find veterans who might be interested in sharing their story. For additional support, especially for educators and students, check out these resources from the Veterans History Project, including sample interviews and questions.

4. Invite a Veteran to Speak to Your Class

Have your students ask their families whether they have any relatives who are veterans, and if they would be willing to visit the classroom—either virtually or in person—to share what Veterans Day means to them. You can also request that they share stories or experiences from their time in the military. Set up a specific agenda beforehand and remain sensitive to what they may or may not want to disclose. Then, you can give your high schoolers time to ask questions. If no students in your class have a family member who is willing to speak to the class, contact a local veterans’ organization to arrange a classroom visit.

Given the ongoing pandemic, a virtual meeting may be your best bet. After the visit, have students complete a write-up of their most memorable takeaways from the conversation. You can get creative in finding ways to align the assignment with your curriculum.

5. Create and S end Paracord Survival Bracelets

According to Operation Gratitude , paracord bracelets—made from parachute cord that can hold up to 550 pounds—can be used by military personnel for a number of reasons, including to create a makeshift shelter; make a sling, splint, or harness; and attach camouflage nets to trees or vehicles. In this activity, have your students create paracord bracelets following these video or step-by-step photo instructions . (Your school or district can purchase paracord bracelet kits through Operation Gratitude.) Then, you can ship the students’ paracord bracelets to Operation Gratitude to be included in care packages sent to U.S. Armed Forces members. You can also have your students write letters to military personnel explaining why they are grateful for their service to our country and submit a copy to you for a grade or extra credit.

6. Take a Virtual Trip to a Military Museum or Memorial

There are a number of museum field trips you can take with your students to teach them about the military today and its role throughout history—and they all take place online. Here are some examples:

• The National WWI Museum and Memorial , Kansas City, Missouri : The museum offers a number of online exhibitions on topics including volunteerism during World War I, the end of WWI in 1918, and more.
• National Museum of the U.S. Navy, Washington, D.C. : Your students can view artifacts , digital exhibits , and photography related to various wars. In addition, the museum offers high school lesson plans on Pearl Harbor .
• Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Complex, New York, New York : The complex offers virtual tours and talks as well as videos on its YouTube channel , oral history interviews with those who served on board the famous aircraft carrier, a searchable database of the Museum’s collection of items, and more.
• The National WWII Museum, New Orleans, Louisiana: View exhibits including “Road to Tokyo” and “Road to Berlin,” which contain historical photographs and information. The museum also offers distance learning opportunities and resources for students and teachers.
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial , Washington D.C. : The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund offers a virtual tour of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the National Mall, which is available online or via the VVMF’s Mobile Tour app.

7. Create a Veterans Day Timeline

Have your students work in groups, either in person or virtually, and create a timeline depicting the key events in the history of Veterans Day. For each event, they should write a detailed paragraph or bulleted explanation about why this is considered an important event in the history of the holiday. The timeline format can be a video, trifold board, online presentation, or anything your students come up with. They should answer the following questions when creating their timeline, which they can submit for extra credit or present to the class:

• Why does Veterans Day take place on November 11 each year?
• Veterans Day was originally known as Armistice Day. Why was this changed?
• Is Veterans Day celebrated in other countries? If so, when?
• What’s the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?

8. Write a Veterans Day Essay

Have students write a short paragraph, essay, or explanation about how Veterans Day has evolved since it began nearly a century ago. Why (or why not) is this a holiday we should still observe today? Invite students to explain their reasoning to the class.

More Ideas for Veterans Day Activities?

Have any more ideas for Veterans Day lesson plans for high school students ? Share your favorites with us on Twitter (@TheTeacherRoom) or Facebook .

Immerse middle and high school students in history with HMH Social Studies , our personalized, inquiry-based social studies solution.

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10 Veterans Day Activities For High School Students

On November 11th, as the nation comes together to honor and express gratitude to our brave veterans, our high school is dedicated to creating a memorable and meaningful Veterans Day experience for our students. It is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military and to recognize their invaluable contributions. Our school has curated a range of engaging and impactful activities that aim to deepen students’ understanding of the significance of Veterans Day while fostering a sense of appreciation and respect.

From thought-provoking guest speakers who share their firsthand experiences to creative projects that allow students to express their gratitude, each activity is designed to inspire and educate. Through community service initiatives, interactive discussions, and moments of reflection, we aim to instill a profound sense of respect and honor for our veterans. As we come together on this special day, we strive to ensure that our high school students understand the importance of remembering and appreciating the sacrifices of our veterans.

Saluting our heroes: Engaging veterans day activities for high school students

1. guest speaker.

Step into a world of inspiration and insight by hosting a remarkable guest speaker. Their presence brings a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and experiences that shape our veterans’ lives. Get ready to be captivated by their stories, wisdom, and firsthand accounts of serving our nation. 

Begin by introducing the guest speaker, emphasizing their military background and the significance of their experiences. Highlight the importance of hearing firsthand accounts from veterans and how it can deepen students’ understanding and appreciation for their sacrifices. Encourage students to actively listen, ask questions, and show respect throughout the presentation.

Motivate them that it is a chance to express our gratitude, learn valuable lessons, and foster a profound sense of respect and appreciation for the incredible men and women who have dedicated themselves to protecting our freedom.

2. Veterans Day Assembly

Welcome to a gathering of reverence and gratitude as we come together to celebrate Veterans Day. Encourage students to unite to honor the brave souls who have selflessly served our country. This assembly serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans and the extraordinary impact they have had on our lives. 

Set the stage for the assembly by creating a patriotic atmosphere with decorations, flags, and patriotic music. Explain the purpose of the assembly, which is to honor and pay tribute to veterans. Introduce each performance, such as the singing of patriotic songs or readings of veterans’ stories, with a brief explanation of its relevance. Emphasize the importance of attentive and respectful participation from the audience.

Through heartfelt performances, stirring readings, and patriotic displays, immerse yourselves in a tapestry of emotions and memories. Create an atmosphere of deep respect and appreciation, cherishing the memories of the past while forging a brighter future.

3. Service Projects

Step into the realm of compassion and service and embark on a mission to honor and support our veterans. Encourage students that by engaging in meaningful service projects, they have the power to make a lasting impact and express their profound gratitude. 

Introduce the concept of service projects as a way for students to give back to veterans in their community. Explain the different options, such as volunteering at a VA hospital, organizing care package drives, or writing letters of appreciation to deployed servicemen and women. Provide clear instructions on how students can get involved, including dates, locations, and contact information for organizing the service projects.

Through these acts of kindness, we extend a hand of support and remind our heroes that their sacrifices are deeply valued. Let us ignite a spark of compassion and empathy, working side by side to create a brighter future for those who have given so much to us.

4. Flag Ceremony

In a moment of solemn unity, gather to honor the emblem that embodies the spirit of the nation: the American flag. As it unfurls, carried by the hands of reverence, pay homage to the unwavering commitment and sacrifice of our veterans. Amidst the fluttering of the flag, stand together, veterans, active-duty military personnel, and students, in a profound respect for those who have defended our freedom. 

Begin by explaining the significance of the flag-raising ceremony and its connection to honoring veterans. Provide instructions on the proper handling and etiquette of the flag. Involve students in the ceremony by assigning roles, such as raising and lowering the flag, leading the Pledge of Allegiance, playing Taps, or observing a moment of silence. Emphasize the importance of solemnity and respect during the ceremony.

Let the flag inspire all to uphold the values of courage, integrity, and unity that define our great nation. Join in a timeless tribute, honoring our veterans and embracing the legacy of patriotism they have bestowed upon us.

5. Veteran Interviews

Unlock the gateway to a profound journey of empathy and understanding and engage in the art of veteran interviews. With each heartfelt conversation, unlock the hidden chambers of personal experiences, unveiling the depths of sacrifice, bravery, and resilience. Together, honor their unwavering commitment and forge an unbreakable bond, bridging the gap between generations and preserving their legacy for eternity. 

Introduce the oral history project by highlighting its purpose of learning from veterans’ experiences and preserving their stories. Explain the process of finding and contacting veterans in the community, and provide students with interview guidelines and sample questions to guide their conversations. Emphasize the importance of active listening, empathy, and respect during the interviews. Instruct students on how to document and present their findings, whether through written reports, presentations, or multimedia projects.

6. Patriotic Art Display

Prepare to be captivated by a burst of colors and creativity as the school becomes a canvas of gratitude. Invite talented students to unleash their artistic expression and create masterpieces that honor our veterans. Through brushstrokes and imagination, they will capture the essence of bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism. Once completed, these artworks will be proudly displayed in a dedicated area of the school, serving as a powerful reminder of the indelible mark left by our veterans.

To create our Patriotic Art Display, students will be provided with art supplies and encouraged to unleash their creativity. They can choose various mediums such as painting, drawing, or even mixed media to create their artworks. Students will be guided to focus on themes of bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism while honoring our veterans. Once the artworks are completed, they will be carefully curated and displayed in a prominent area of our school, such as the hallway or dedicated exhibition space, where they can be admired and appreciated by the entire school community.

7. Research Projects

Embark on a journey of discovery and exploration and delve into the rich tapestry of military history. Each student will be assigned a captivating research project that uncovers different aspects of the military, its heroes, and pivotal moments. Through in-depth investigations and analysis, students will become historians, unearthing untold stories and shedding light on the remarkable contributions of veterans. By presenting their findings, they will not only deepen their knowledge but also inspire others to appreciate the significance of Veterans Day.

Students will be assigned specific research topics related to military history and veterans. They will be provided with resources such as books, articles, and online databases to conduct their research. Students will gather information, analyze primary and secondary sources, and organize their findings into a comprehensive research project. They can present their projects through written reports, multimedia presentations, or even interactive displays. The projects will be showcased during a designated event, allowing students to share their discoveries and insights with their peers and teachers.

8. Veterans Day Essay Contest

Calling all aspiring writers and deep thinkers! Here’s your chance to craft powerful words that resonate with the spirit of Veterans Day. The essay contest invites students to reflect, express, and share their thoughts on the importance of honoring veterans. Whether it’s personal experiences, heartfelt gratitude, or a profound understanding of the sacrifices made, each essay will illuminate the significance of this day. 

Students will be given clear guidelines for the essay contest, including the theme and word count requirements. They will be encouraged to reflect on the importance of honoring veterans and consider personal connections or experiences that have shaped their understanding.

Students will express their thoughts, emotions, and gratitude through well-crafted essays. The essays will be submitted and evaluated by a panel of judges who will assess them based on creativity, content, and adherence to the theme. The winners will be announced during a special ceremony, where they will have the opportunity to read their essays aloud or have them shared with the school community.

9. Film Screening

Lights, camera, action! Get ready for a captivating cinematic experience and gather for a thought-provoking film screening. Through carefully selected documentaries and movies, embark on an emotional journey, immersing yourselves in the stories of veterans and pivotal moments in military history. After the screening, come together to discuss and reflect on the film’s themes, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and resilience displayed by our veterans.

A carefully selected documentary or movie related to veterans or military history will be chosen for the film screening. The film will be shown in a suitable venue, such as the school auditorium or a designated classroom, with proper audiovisual equipment. After the screening, a facilitated discussion or reflection session will take place, allowing students to share their thoughts, ask questions, and explore the themes presented in the film. This interactive session will encourage deeper understanding and empathy, fostering a sense of appreciation for the experiences of veterans.

10. Wall of Honor

Step into a corridor of pride and remembrance and create your very own Wall of Honor. This special display invites students to share the personal connections they have with the military. Each student is encouraged to bring in pictures, names, and brief stories of family members or friends who have served or are currently serving. As these heartfelt tributes adorn the walls, we will be reminded of the sacrifices made by those close to us and develop a profound appreciation for the impact of military service.

To create our Wall of Honor, invite students to bring in photographs, names, and brief stories of their family members or friends who have served or are currently serving in the military. Display these on a designated wall or bulletin board in a visually appealing and organized manner. Encourage students to add personal touches, such as captions or small tokens of appreciation. The Wall of Honor will serve as a visual tribute, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by those connected to our school community.

In conclusion, Veterans Day provides a valuable opportunity for high school students to honor and appreciate the sacrifices made by veterans. Engaging in meaningful activities not only educates students about the significance of this important day but also fosters empathy, gratitude, and a deeper understanding of the experiences of veterans. 

These activities not only create memorable experiences but also encourage students to reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans and the importance of their contributions. This will also help students who want to join the military have some experience of the life of military personnel and decide for themselves. By actively involving high school students in Veterans Day activities, we can instill a sense of patriotism, empathy, and gratitude that will stay with them long after the day has passed. Let us come together as a community to honor our heroes and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Having a 10+ years of experience in teaching little budding learners, I am now working as a soft skills and IELTS trainers. Having spent my share of time with high schoolers, I understand their fears about the future. At the same time, my experience has helped me foster plenty of strategies that can make their 4 years of high school blissful. Furthermore, I have worked intensely on helping these young adults bloom into successful adults by training them for their dream colleges. Through my blogs, I intend to help parents, educators and students in making these years joyful and prosperous.

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After compiling the graph, ask students to use the information it supplies to write five true statements. (i.e. "Two students have parents in the military.")

31 Veterans Day Writing Prompts

It’s easy for children to skip thinking about Veterans Day. Preferring to run outside and play in the good weather, instead of thinking thoughtfully about what veterans have gone through to make that possible.

It’s just so easy to let your mind slip into the Veterans Day holiday as being a well-earned long weekend. We sometimes don’t take time to remember the sacrifice and service of others given to make the day possible. 

By using writing prompts to help students understand the importance of veterans, they will get a greater understanding and appreciation for what is being celebrated every Veterans Day – as well as getting some pretty thoughtful writing happening along the way of course. 

How to Use These Veterans Day Writing Prompts

These writing prompts on Veterans Day are designed to make children think more deeply about veterans, the United States military, and how much those things matter.

They’re designed to require open thought, which challenges students to think critically. You can either make these questions internally focused, for students to answer, or you can have students work on their answers, and then share with the class for an open discussion about the Veterans Day holiday. 

There are a few different approaches you can take with these prompts.

For one, you could have students write out multiple answers to prompts in a day and work on them as an in-class celebration of the holiday. In other cases, it may be better to choose to do one or two prompts a day over the course of a week. This way, the messages have time to sink in for your students. 

The Veterans Day Prompts

Here are the 31 writing prompts on Veterans Day:

• What does Veterans Day celebrate?
• Who are veterans?
• Do you know any veterans? Are there any in your family?
• Why are veterans important?
• What are some ways that we can honor veterans?
• Should the government and companies give extra benefits to veterans?
• Are veterans unique to the United States? Why or why not?
• What would happen if we stopped celebrating Veterans Day?
• Is Veterans Day more important for honoring veterans or as a day off from school? Why?
• What do you think veterans think of Veterans Day?
• How you ever been to a war memorial? How did it make you feel?
• Do you know any American wars? What kind of impact did they have on the country?
• Do you know what the USO is? Why is it important?
• How would you welcome a parent home from military service?
• Do you think veterans are generally proud of their service? What makes them proud?
• A military draft is when members of society are randomly chosen to join the military. Is this a good system? Why or why not?
• If you could design a monument to veterans, what would it look like?
• What would you include in a veterans’ museum?
• Why do people join the military?
• What does it mean to serve your country and community? Are there ways you can do so without joining the military? What are they?
• What are the branches of the military? How do they differ, and which sounds most interesting to you?
• Should we treat people differently, just because they’re a veteran? Why or why not?
• Is Veterans Day a necessary holiday? Why or why not?
• What are some symbols that make you feel patriotic? Why do they have an impact on you?
• Can you be a veteran without fighting in a war? If so, how?
• Have you ever watched the Army-Navy football game? If so, did it make you feel differently than a regular football game? Why do you think that is?
• How has war changed over the years? Is it better or worse now?
• What impact does the military have on your daily life?
• Do you know any famous military figures? What made them important?
• Why are there so many songs and movies about war?
• Is it a good thing to be romantic about war, or should we be more realistic? What would a veteran think?

Looking for More Information?

For more information and resources for teachers on writing and education, please browse around – try the top menu of the site for all our categories, or search our site for something you have in mind!

Here are some more prompts about being brave and Earth Day which you might like to try out.

Feel free to share with friends and coworkers who may find the website useful too.

If anything is missing or you have any suggestions, please feel free to reach out to us. 

Lesson Plan

Nov. 11, 2022, 11:07 a.m.

Lesson plan: Veterans Day and the meaning of sacrifice

John Grillo, 94, World War II, U.S. Navy veteran, Levittown, New York, Nov. 8, 2021. Courtesy: Madeline Louis

This lesson was updated on November 11, 2022. It was originally published in 2014.

Use this PBS NewsHour lesson plan to help students understand the significance of Veterans Day and the meaning of sacrifice. Students will identify important veterans in their lives, examine an interactive timeline of military history and study issues facing veterans today. For a google doc version of this lesson, click here .

World history, government and civics, U.S. history, geography

Estimated time

One 50-minute class

Grade level

Middle and high school

Warning: Due to the large number of students who either have friends or family that serve in the armed forces please take care and be sensitive when discussing Veterans Day.

Warm-up activity

• Start class by asking students what they know about Veterans Day and give them the AARP Quiz and then go over the answers with them.
• Watch “Bet You Didn't Know — Veterans Day” from the History Channel (below) as a class.

• Watch Student Reporting Labs' Veterans Day video featuring students from military families living here in the U.S. and around the world.

Background on U.S. Wars

Share this interactive timeline with students and watch videos associated with U.S. wars. You may choose the wars your class knows the least about or play what you have time for. Click on the timeline to scroll through to each event, and click on the images above the timeline to watch short videos on the war.

Main activity — special issues for today’s veterans

• As a class, brainstorm the risks and benefits of being a soldier today and write answers on the board. Let the class know that they are going to take a closer look at some of the issues that veterans face today and how these challenges are being treated.
• Read to students: With new medical and life-saving technology more troops are surviving traumatic injuries that would have sealed their fate just decades ago. The effects of the increase in soldiers dealing with severe injuries such as losing limbs, traumatic brain injuries and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder has taxed the Veterans Administration (V.A.) at unprecedented levels leaving response time to disability claims anywhere from months to years. Further, both an increase in an aging veteran population as well as female veterans brings new challenges to the V.A. Let’s look more in depth at the issues facing today’s veterans.

Part 1 - Waiting for benefits

• Watch the above video clip, “Veterans' Disability Delayed.”
• Read the Center for Investigative Reporting article “For Disabled Veterans Awaiting Benefits Decisions, Location Matters” by Aaron Glantz.

Part 2 — How phantom limbs are successfully being treated today

Watch the TED Talk "3 clues to understanding your brain" by VS Ramachandran (in particular, highlight the excerpt from 9:15-17:45).

Part 3 — Unique challenges that women veterans face

Watch the PBS NewsHour report “Women Veterans Face Unique Obstacles, Needs."

Part 4 - Veterans and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• What is PTSD? How does it manifest in veterans? Read the story of one veteran.
• How is PTSD diagnosed? Look at the Diagnostic Statistical Manual V Criteria for PTSD or Self-Report Questionnaire for PTSD .
• How is it treated? Hear about treatment options from the Veterans Association.

Writing prompts

• Write a Veterans Day thank you note. Use this lesson plan to help your students identify and understand important veterans in their life.
• Write an argument to either support or reject claims that veterans today face challenges that veterans in the past did not using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
• Choose one of the wars that was featured on the interactive timeline and write three short narrative-snap shots including one day in the life of that veteran before, during, and after the war using effective technique, well-chosen details and well-structured event sequences.

By Katie Gould, former NewsHour teacher resource producer. ( A special thanks to my grandfather, Joe Sidor, pictured in the writing prompts section, for his many years of service as a Marine during World War II, his work in China after World War II and the Korean War.)

An additional thank you to Susan Dickson for contributing photographs for the story.

Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources. Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning.

Standards (CCSS)

• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.1 Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.8.1 Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.1 Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.1 Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.7.3 Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.8.3 Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.3 Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.3 Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.7 Compare and contrast a text to an audio, video, or multimedia version of the text, analyzing each medium’s portrayal of the subject (e.g., how the delivery of a speech affects the impact of the words).
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.8.7 Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using different mediums (e.g., print or digital text, video, multimedia) to present a particular topic or idea.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.9-10.2 Determine a central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text, including how it emerges and is shaped and refined by specific details; provide an objective summary of the text.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.11-12.2 Determine two or more central ideas of a text and analyze their development over the course of the text, including how they interact and build on one another to provide a complex analysis; provide an objective summary of the text.

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Mrs. Beers Language Arts Classroom

A middle school ELA teacher blog featuring language arts activities, classroom ideas, and teacher resources for grades 4-8.

Remembering Veterans Day: Activities for the Middle School Classroom

Veterans Day not only highlights the importance of thanking those who protect our country, but it also gives teachers the chance to help students connect with the veterans in their lives. Understanding perspectives and learning from the experiences of others is essential for us to grow as readers and writers. Here are a few activities I use with my middle school students to help them think more deeply about the importance of Veterans Day.

Veteran’s Day is always on November 11th, but this year the federal holiday is on Friday, November 10, 2023. My favorite inspirational quote to use with my students during this time is from Ralph Waldo Emerson. To me, it sums up what our servicemen and servicewomen put into action on a daily basis. If you are short on planning time, use the quote below as a daily writing prompt and ask your students how it relates to the theme of Veterans Day.

I have had the good fortune of knowing many veterans. Friends, husbands of friends, and my stepdad are some of the veterans in my life. They have served in Vietnam, Desert Storm, and the Iraq War.  While I know their stories can be hard, I love listening. I am grateful and indebted to each of them for their service to our country.

Over the last few years, my children have interviewed our family members for a variety of school assignments and projects. This inspired me to reach out to my stepdad to learn more about his life as a retired member of the military. I wanted to share something unique with my middle school classroom for Veterans Day, and hearing the experiences of a real person is much more engaging for my students compared to a generic reading passage.

My stepdad was in the Vietnam War, which was obviously one of the most controversial wars in U.S. history. While the war was fought from 1959–1975, his tours took place during 1966 and 1967. While I knew my stepdad was a Vietnam veteran, I had never taken the time to ask him questions about his experiences in the military. I knew he flew helicopters, but that was about all of the insight I had. It was amazing the perspective I gained after talking with him.

He shared that in the 50+ years that have passed, no one has asked him the questions I did, and he was grateful I asked them. I have to say that I am too! He is an inspiration. Hearing his story reminds me of why it is so essential that we take the time to thank our veterans for their selfless service and celebrate them every chance we get. We owe our freedom to their relentless bravery and sacrifice. Thank you, Pappa, and each and every one of the veterans who have proudly served our country!

Reader’s Theater Activity

If you enjoy my reader’s theater scripts , I created a Veterans Day script and lesson unit that is based on the interview I had with my stepdad. In addition to the script itself, there are worksheets with reader response questions, context clue word work, journal prompts, and more. You can buy and download the PDF by clicking the image below.

If you are searching for a unique activity to engage your middle school students, this Veteran’s Day Readers Theater Toolkit is a great resource to try.

Veteran Interview Activity

Another idea is to challenge your students to speak to the veterans in their lives. They have amazing stories of bravery and service. Even a simple phone interview can provide multiple writing prompts that students can use for both writing and student conversation activities.

I have found that most students enjoy learning about their family veterans, and they are proud to share the things they learned through the interview. You can download my Veteran Interview PDF Freebie for inspiration below.

Veterans have stories and experiences that our students can learn from in many ways. While we often focus on reading books as language arts teachers, hearing stories and asking questions help our students practice essential language skills. Encourage your students to talk to veterans. Their stories are incredible, and the lessons the next generation can learn during this time can go far beyond the typical reading and writing assignments.

Thank you, veterans!  We are indebted to you, we pray for you, and we salute you!

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17 Veterans Day Activity Ideas for School & Work in 2024

You found our list of Veterans Day ideas .

Veterans Day is November 11 in the United States and is a federal holiday. Veterans Day activities and ideas are ways to honor armed forces online on that day. For example, by learning on history websites or participating in themed activities via virtual conferencing platforms. This day is also known as National Veterans Day, and is recognized at schools, work, church, nursing homes and other locations.

In Canada, the UK and other Commonwealth Countries, November 11 is known as Remembrance Day . The holiday is similar to virtual Memorial Day .

This list includes:

• Veterans Day activities for kids
• Veterans Day program ideas for schools
• Virtual Veterans Day online activities
• Virtual Veterans Day event ideas during Covid
• Veterans Day celebration ideas

Here are the ideas!

List of Veterans Day activities & ideas

From volunteer opportunities to learning moments to online events, here is a list of ways to celebrate Veterans Day virtually.

1. Veterans Day Word Search (Free Template)

A fun and educational way to recognize Veterans Day with students is a word search. For example, you can search for words like “Marines”, “Freedom”, and “Flag.”

Here is a free template you can start with:

And here is the PDF answer key .

You can also complete this Veterans Day Word Search online .

2. Veterans Day Word Jumble

One way to educate students and kids about Veterans Day is to make it fun. You can do a word jumble as a 15 minute activity, and then use the found words to start conversations about important topics.

Here is a template:

Here is the answer key .

You can easily make your own template too to extend the activity to more words.

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3. Volunteer to help veterans

Soldiers sacrifice health, safety, and time with their families, often for months or years at a time. This Veterans Day, you can devote a few hours of your time to virtual-friendly philanthropy.

Here is a list of online charities that help veterans:

• DAV : DAV provides many avenues of support to veterans and their families. Volunteering options include corporate partnerships, social media and fitness fundraising, and spare-change donations.
• Operation Gratitude : This group supports veterans, active troops, military families, and first responders. They offer virtual volunteerism opportunities for individuals, groups, and businesses, including letter writing, crafting, and purchasing products through Amazon Smile.
• Soldiers’ Angels : Soldier’s Angels seek to uplift military members and families by organizing good deeds from around the globe. Virtual volunteering tasks include throwing virtual baby showers for spouses of deployed members, sending letters and care packages, and comforting service members or families.
• Hire Heroes USA : This organization helps veterans transition to civilian jobs. Sign up to participate in mock interviews, provide career counseling, and follow up about the job search process.
• Warrior Rising : Warrior Rising aims to empower veterans by teaching entrepreneurial skills. Apply to be a mentor, and guide aspiring owners on their business journeys.

These charities also accept monetary donations.

While you can volunteer on a one-off basis, ongoing support makes a bigger impact.

Virtual volunteering for even a few hours each month adds up, so make a commitment to volunteer on Veterans Day that continues throughout the year.

Here are ways to volunteer as a group , and more ways to volunteer online .

4. Make a donation

If your time is too scarce to volunteer regularly, or if you want to provide additional support, then consider making a donation.

Here are some veterans charities to donate to online:

• Semper Fi Fund
• Department of Veterans Affairs
• Special Operations Warrior Foundation
• Fisher House Foundation
• Operation Second Chance
• Hope for the Warriors
• Operation Homefront

Of course, there are many other efforts dedicated to helping veterans and active service members, including localized and community-based organizations. Be sure to research the philanthropy to familiarize yourself with the mission and confirm the validity of organization.

Consider also launching your own online fundraising campaign. For information on how to coordinate a successful online fundraiser, check out our article on virtual fundraising ideas .

5. Write letters or emails to troops

Writing letters to troops is one of the easiest and most meaningful virtual Veterans Day activities. This is a great exercise for children and adults alike. Simply compose personal messages, and then send the letters to active duty soldiers.

Here are some organizations that send letters to soldiers:

• Soldiers’ Angels
• Operation Gratitude
• A Million Thanks
• Operation We Are Here
• Forgotten Soldiers’ Outreach

Deployment can get lonely, and a bit of human connection can mean a lot.

6. Invite a veteran to a video chat

One of the best virtual veterans day ideas for school is to invite a veteran to a video call. To facilitate an online assembly, encourage the former service member to tell stories, and share pictures on online meeting software such as Zoom, GoogleMeet, or Microsoft Teams. Students can use the chat box to ask questions during the presentation. There is likely a community veterans association in your area that would be happy to connect you with a veteran willing to spare an hour or two to enlighten young minds.

Veteran video conferences are useful outside the classroom setting, too. Many veterans report feeling lonely or isolated, but spending a few minutes connecting on screen can provide needed social time. Reaching out to check on the veterans in your life today, and periodically, is a good idea. You can also connect with veterans charities and offer to chat with former service members in need of a friend.

You can invite the veteran to do fun Zoom activities with your group too.

7. Brush up on military history

Veterans Day is a great time to brush up on military history. Learning about past wars, strategy, and the history of branches of the armed forces allows you to better appreciate the experiences of service members.

Here are some good military history online resources:

• National Archives
• US Army Center of Military History
• Library of Congress
• Society for Military History
• Air Force Historical Research Agency
• National WWI Museum
• National WWII Museum

Of course, there are many other useful learning tools you can use, including documentaries.

8. Veterans Day virtual field trip

While you may not be able to visit key service landmarks in person, you can tour these facilities online.

Here are some virtual tours of national monuments, museums, and battlefields:

• National Mall
• Veterans and War Memorials
• Virtual Tour of Washington D.C.
• National Museum of the US Navy
• National Museum of the United States Air Force
• Gettysburg National Battlefield

Check out our list of virtual field trip ideas for more ideas.

9. Educate yourself on PTSD

PTSD, or posttraumatic stress disorder, is a condition suffered by many veterans. One way to assist PTSD patients in their battle is to educate yourself about the condition. The media often depicts the disease inaccurately, and misconceptions abound, such as the notion that the disorder affects only soldiers.

Here are some good online PTSD resources:

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD
• Mayo Clinic
• PTSD Foundation of America
• American Psychiatric Association (APA)

By learning more about the disorder, you can show afflicted parties empathy and be of greater assistance to those in need of help.

10. Curate a patriotic playlist

Music plays a big role in the military, and thus, should play a prominent part in your online Veterans Day celebrations. Creating a soundtrack to accompany an online event is one of the best virtual Veterans Day program ideas.

To set the proper tone for the affair, curate a patriotic playlist full of country-specific anthems and service songs on Pandora or Spotify. For inspiration, check out this YouTube playlist of military marches.

11. Attend a virtual Veterans Day event

Many parades, concerts, and ceremonies stream online so that folks can observe the holiday from afar. Websites like EventBrite and Eventful have listings of various online affairs, and you can also search for virtual events in your area, or in areas like Washington D.C. and New York City where bigger celebrations tend to occur. The VA also published a handy list of organizations offering virtual Veterans Day celebrations.

12. Host a service-inspired remote book club meeting

There are many great books written by or about veterans. Consider hosting an online book club meeting hosted around a military read in November.

Here are a few title suggestions:

• Dispatches by Michael Herr
• Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
• For Whom The Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway
• The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
• The Yellow Birds by Kevin Powers
• Redeployment by Phil Klay

Simply send the book assignment to the group a few weeks in advance, then meet on a video call to discuss the reading. To keep conversation alive, you can prepare discussion questions ahead of time.

If your group does not have the time to read an entire book, then can choose shorter essays or articles to analyze instead.

13. Take an online photo gallery tour

Veterans are more than faceless soldiers. Each former armed service member has a unique identity, and portrait projects emphasize this idea. While it is important to pay homage to veterans as a whole, it is also crucial to recognize soldiers as individuals.

Here are a few online veteran photo galleries worth browsing:

• Veterans Portrait Project
• American Legion Photo Gallery
• 22 Striking Portraits Of War Veterans Around The World

Media outlets and social media channels often post seasonal tributes to veterans in November as well, so keep an eye out for photography projects to appreciate on Veterans Day.

14. Offer a discount or complimentary service to vets

One of the best virtual veterans day ideas for work is to directly give back to veterans by offering a discount or complimentary service. Campaigns could range from a free cup of coffee or an additional retail markdown, to a complimentary consultation or advisory session, or even a special party.

To organize your event:

• Choose an offering
• Decide the scope of the event, and determine whether participants will need to pre-register to benefit
• Recruit a team to help organize and execute the event
• Advertise the promotion
• Run the experience
• Take and share plenty of pictures!

While some campaigns may take months to plan, you can also institute last minute events like delivering a few boxes of donuts to a local veterans community association.

15. Create a Veterans Day craft

Crafts are great Veterans Day activities for kids and students. First, send students patterns and instructions for crafts. Scouring Pinterest for Veterans Day craft ideas sparks creativity and uncovers pre-made templates.

On Veterans Day, gather on a video call to cut, color, and create together. Be sure to show off each other’s masterpieces at the end of the activity. Another nice touch is to send the finished crafts to actual troops using one of the letter-writing organizations listed above. Also, consider creating an online photo album or social media gallery so that other classes, teachers, and parents can appreciate the artwork too!

16. Learn about armed services dogs

Some of the most engaging virtual Veterans Day activities for kids center around service dogs. Children love animals, so honoring canine companions is a great way to hold class’ attention. To teach the lesson, read about dogs that serve in the military or help veterans heal , watch videos about military dogs , and watch the Warrior Canine Collection’s puppy nursery live camera . Consider capping the lesson off by making a modest class donation to a canine veteran charity.

Here is a guide to Take Your Dog to Work Day .

17. Support a veteran entrepreneur

While many folks think of veterans as former soldiers, there are many other facets of veterans ‘ identities. Service members often leave the military and go on to work successful second careers, many even launching their own businesses.

By visiting veteran-owned restaurants, bakeries, gyms, galleries, home services vendors, and other small businesses, you can make a meaningful contribution through your patronage. To search for veteran-owned businesses, visit the VA website or an independent veteran-owned business directory .

Final Thoughts

Traditional Veterans Day events typically consist of parades, assemblies, and ceremonies, but observing the day in these ways is not always a possibility. If situations such as distance, weather, and limited mobility prevent you from attending an in-person gathering, celebrate Veterans Day virtually by adapting one of the activities or ideas in this post.

Next, check out our article on virtual Thanksgiving ideas and this one with online classroom activities .

We also have a list of ways to celebrate Labor Day online , ideas for virtual July 4th and St. George’s Day activities .

Book wildly fun team building events with expert hosts

FAQ: Veterans Day

Here is a list of common questions about Veterans Day, together with answers.

How do you celebrate Veterans Day online?

Ways to observe Veterans Day online include virtually volunteering, joining a video call to participate in activities with others, watching an event live-stream, or browsing pertinent armed service websites.

What are some good virtual Veterans Day ideas?

The best remote Veterans Day ideas pay tribute to the sacrifices of the troops, recognize soldiers’ individuality, and educate audiences on the significance of the day. Some good virtual Veterans Day Ideas include:

• Volunteering to help veterans
• Making a donation
• Supporting a veteran entrepreneur
• Writing letters or emails to troops
• Virtually touring national monuments, museums, and battlefields
• Take an online photo gallery tour

Browsing online events and collections for inspiration can help you plan your own virtual Veterans Day programs

What are good charities to support on Veterans Day?

There are many great philanthropies that support veterans, active service members, and military families. Here are some good charities to check out this Veterans Day:

• Hire Heroes USA
• Warrior Rising

It is also worth supporting local veterans associations and philanthropies within your immediate community.

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Marketing Coordinator at teambuilding.com. Team building content expert. Angela has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and worked as a community manager with Yelp to plan events for businesses.

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Veterans Day Choice Board for Middle School

Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11 each year. These Veterans Day student choice board activities for middle school are perfect for celebrating and learning about the holiday in your classroom!

They are great for reading and writing centers, as extension or early-finisher activities, or given as take-home independent practice work.

This packet includes a choice board of 9 Veterans Day activities and writing prompts, plus all of the worksheets and printables needed to complete the activities.

Students can choose from activities like:

Celebrating a general, veterans day word scramble, famous veterans.

Featured Middle School Resources

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Vietnam War Veterans Celebrated At Annual Barnegat Event

B ARNEGAT, NJ — One woman's mission to share her gratitude towards Vietnam War veterans has grown into an annual event full of speakers, performances and more.

The annual Vietnam War Veterans Day celebration will be held at Barnegat High School on March 27 with a ceremony from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. and an informal reception from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Barnegat resident and Vietnamese refugee Thy Cavagnaro began the event in 2018 to thank veterans for what they had done. She came to America with her family in 1975, "escaping the fall of Saigon by the skin of our teeth," Cavagnaro said at last year's event. Read more: 'You Are Beloved': Barnegat Celebrates Vietnam War Veterans

This year's keynote speaker is student Marqueisha Philippe, who was just a freshman at Barnegat High School when she first participated in the event in 2022. A member of the marching band, she had no idea what Vietnam War veterans had faced until she took part in the event. It made her realize how important events like Barnegat's are for veterans and chose to spread the word about it, according to a post from Cavagnaro's Facebook page, Thanking Vietnam veterans in Barnegat .

The event will also feature a Vietnamese prisoner of war and an American prisoner of war as guest speakers, along with tables from veteran organizations and musical performances from Barnegat students.

For more information, visit the Thanking Vietnam veterans in Barnegat Facebook page .

The article Vietnam War Veterans Celebrated At Annual Barnegat Event appeared first on Barnegat-Manahawkin Patch .

Herriman High School Choir, Orchestra, and Tour Concert Band Proud to Perform at National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade

It was a huge honor for the Herriman High School Choir, Orchestra, and Tour Concert Band. They were invited to perform recently at the National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade in Honolulu, Hawaii. The students, along with their music directors, represented Jordan School District and all of the State of Utah with amazing performances, showing their pride and tremendous talents.

The National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade takes place to pay tribute to those who served our nation for the cause of freedom and liberty. Honolulu and its historic Waikiki beach served as a perfect host and backdrop for the important commemoration and welcome home for veterans.

Bands not only marched in the parade, but they were an integral part of the Official Public Ceremony, performing as part of the mass band led by the Marine Forces Pacific Band.

Congratulations to Herriman High School for honoring veterans in such a meaningful way and giving veterans musical memories to last a lifetime.