Virtual field trip takes students to Washington DC

Each spring — in pre-COVID times, that is — hundreds of buses filled with elementary- and middle-school students lined the streets of Washington DC. Students explored the monuments and learned about the history of the federal city. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many that opened their eyes to a world beyond their classroom.

First Lady Jill Biden and Discovery Education are inviting students to tour the nation’s capital again through The City of U.S. – A Virtual Field Trip to Washington, D.C.. The event is supported by Comcast Community Impact.

This is a student-led field trip. All students are from families served by Operation Homefront, a nonprofit serving military families.

The event will feature appearances from a number of leaders including Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and Yolanda King, granddaughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Also appearing is First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. Dr. Biden will welcome students with a look at some of her favorite spaces in the White House then send them out into the city for a virtual tour of many historic landmarks. Stops planned include the US Capitol Building, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Viewing information and learning resources

“The City of U.S. – A Virtual Field Trip to Washington, DC” premieres May 26 at 1 PM Eastern. Here’s how you can view it:

Live: DiscoveryEducation.com/City-of-US
On-demand: Discovery Education’s Virtual Field Trips Channel
Television: Discovery Family or on C-SPAN on Saturday, May 29th at 10 AM ET
In Spanish: Discovery Familia on Friday, May 28th at 12 PM ET

And here are some resources to support your instruction:

The City of U.S. Educator Companion Guide includes background information on the city plus learning objectives, questions and multiple activities. It is aligned to learning standards and college, career, and civic life frameworks.
Afterschool guide
Curated family guide, includes activities like designing a Great Seal, questions about each VFT location and creative ways families can explore the history and symbolism of their own area.

Marie Connelly is a modern learning specialist for Dorchester School District Two in Summerville, South Carolina.

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Viewing information and learning resources

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