The history of Groundhog Day provides students an opportunity to think about what life may have been like in different eras and places. As a writing activity, have students imagine what it would be like to be a German immigrant to America. Ask them to write a journal entry detailing their thoughts about their new home, including how it would feel to discover that the weather is different, as are the native animals. Take this concept even further and ask students to imagine what life would have been like in Germany. Or, have the students write a report on the history of Groundhog Day including its origins in Germany and America.
Because the holiday is a tradition based on weather prediction, Groundhog Day offers plenty of opportunity for students to explore statistics and weather patterns. Have students consult charts detailing Groundhog Day predictions from previous years compared them to actual weather outcomes. Have students write a response considering whether this tradition is an accurate weather-prediction tool and, if not, why we still consult groundhogs to predict the weather. Encourage students to consider other traditions and holidays that don't necessarily have a logical purpose but carry meaning nonetheless.
Groundhog Day is celebrated nationwide, but in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, where German settlers first celebrated the day, the celebration draws thousands of people. Since the famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, is such a tourist attraction, have students consult a map and imagine they're planning a road trip to Punxsutawney. Ask them to write a diary planning their trip and list the cities and towns they'll drive through. Have them plan to stop at several landmarks along the way, and ask them to write about why they want to visit each landmark.
Instruct the students on the history, weather or geography surrounding the Groundhog Day tradition. Have them write short stories based on one aspect of Groundhog Day. Or have them write a story that imagines what life might be like 50 years from now and considers whether we'll still celebrate Groundhog Day. In addition, students can write poems or songs about the tradition. Find poetry or songs that address the concepts of immigration, tradition or shadows and ask the students to write their own pieces exploring these concepts.