Determining where the branches of a family tree stem from can be a great opportunity for elementary and junior high students to see where they come from. In addition, using a family tree diagram can give older students different creative ideas for writing assignments.
Lesson Idea # 1: A Pictorial Family Tree
This lesson plan is a great way for younger students to start making the connections between the relatives that they know and see every day with the family members that they know through stories from their parents. The first step, of course, is to get a blank family tree diagram for each student. A simple search online should allow you to obtain a few examples that can be easily copied and expanded as necessary. In preparation for the lesson, have your students bring in extra pictures of their parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents, and even great-grandparents, if available. Make sure they know that the pictures need to be extras, since they will become part of their very own family tree design.
Now, with a little glue, some crayons, and other craft materials, have each student decorate their very own family tree, placing each photograph on each of the designated spots. Students, if you are so inclined, can also write a short essay on their family tree diagram, and how they feel about their family.
To read more, go to the family tree diagram website by clicking on this link.