From solitary worship to the construction of the first ever prison synagogue, learn more about Judaism at Eastern State Penitentiary. How was the faith practiced by those living at Eastern State? What efforts are being taken to preserve these sacred spaces today?
The Engineering Achievements of Stephen De Ayala
Uncover the fascinating story of Steven De Ayala, who designed Eastern State’s eleventh cellblock while incarcerated at the penitentiary in the 1890s.
Defining Justice
This 60-minute activity requires students to actively interpret Lady Justice, a symbolic statue designed to encapsulate the American criminal justice system and then define Justice using a Frayer model.
Reading Like a Historian Lessons for K-5
With the support of the Educating for American Democracy (EAD) participants and in collaboration with Los Angeles Unified School District, the Digital Inquiry Group has developed 10 new Reading Like a Historian lessons for K-5 classrooms aligned to the themes and design principles of the EAD Roadmap.
Women’s Fight for Suffrage
Learn about women’s fight for the right to vote in the United States including major leaders and strategies of the women’s suffrage movement.
Traditions of the Senate: Senate Decorum
For more than 200 years, the United States Senate has held certain traditions and customs that Senators follow in order to work together in Congress. Learn about Senate decorum, or the rules about how senators behave as they work. Then, use the worksheet to make some family rules.
Traditions of the Senate: Bean Soup
The Senate has a tradition, or a practice, of having Bean Soup on the menu every day! Learn more about the Senate’s Bean Soup and make your own senatorial soup at home.
Activist Spotlight: Lois Gibbs and the Environmental Toxins
Read about how Lois Gibbs organized a campaign to demand that her community clean up a toxic waste dump. Then, use the worksheet to address an environmental issue in your community.
Activist Spotlight: Gary Anderson and the Recycling Movement
Read about how one person took a small step that made a big difference in the recycling movement. Then, use the worksheet to make a difference in your home.
Issue Investigation: Fracking
This Issue Investigation explores fracking, a way of using high-pressured liquid, sand, and chemicals to crack rock far underground and remove oil, coal, and gas. Some people think fracking is a great way for energy production and jobs. Other people think fracking is dangerous for the environment and public health.