Arts and crafts projects provide a great way for younger students to learn about the U.S. presidents. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president, can be a source of inspiration because of the artifacts associated with him. Students can make a black stovepipe hat like Lincoln wore by using black construction paper and toilet paper tubes. They will also need scissors, a pencil, glue and tape. They can also build a miniature log cabin by using a small cardboard box, hot glue, a sheet of cardboard, a craft knife, garden shears, twigs and a pencil. Optional materials include acetate, a small box and tiny pebbles.
Older students, such as those in high school, can be asked to write letters to the president commenting on his policies or giving their opinions on issues in the news. This activity can help students build an argument using authoritative sources. The letters can also remind the president of his campaign promises and offer suggestions for the next election campaign or strategies in dealing with Congress.
After students have learned about the Electoral College, they can conduct a mock campaign and election in the classroom. They can create their own ads and campaign materials based on their study of elections throughout American history. As part of their campaign, they can create a list of key states to be targeted so they will achieve a majority in the Electoral College.
Appropriate for groups of all ages, a presidential scrapbook challenges students to recreate the life of a former president, including birth, personal life, important milestones, noteworthy accomplishments and historical legacy. The scrapbooks, which can be on paper or online, should include drawings, pictures from historical websites, and magazine or newspaper clippings. Students should write captions for each image.