Curriculum Guides

Turn-of-the-century D.C. reflected the industrial revolution's improvements in transportation, art movements and the changing lifestyles of Americans. As the city closed the open sewer that the Washington Canal had become and paved some streets, an aesthetic sense was expressed in its bridges and the creation of Potomac Park. "A Wildlife Sculptor and a Tale of Three Bridges" gives the story of Alexander Phimister Proctor and his work in D.C. "Map It" highlights the new bridges, radiating trolley lines and new communities.

In the midst of a booming economy, the nation's capital was faced with a challenge to segregation that was practiced in its customs and laws. Activities and resources are provided in this guide to study the social, historic and legal context, Supreme Court decisions and aftermath of Brown v. Board of Education. Daily life is presented in Q&A, the illustrated history of D.C., and "Inspired or Accidental Inventions?" "Map It" provides a map reading exercise and a look at the growth of the D.C. area by 1965.

As the D.C. area grows and looks eastward to expand, the area that was first settled by native inhabitants becomes the focus of waterfront redevelopment. Students are challenged to consider water quality, manmade pollution and potential to transform our neglected “other river” into a source of vitality and recreation. Maps of the Anacostia River and articles from the Post July 2004 five-part series on the Anacostia River Waterfront Initiative are provided to give background for students to propose their own waterfront design.

Students examine the right to vote and from whom this right may be taken. Voting patterns of American voters in presidential and off-year congressional races are studied and used in planning a mayoral campaign that will increase voter turnout. Commentary by former president Jimmy Carter focuses attention on the conducting of elections, in particular those in Florida. Two political cartoons by Post editorial cartoonist Tom Toles stimulates discussion of the role of media in campaigns. After reading a Post article, students discuss the eligibility of individuals with dementia to vote.