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Lessons

Curriculum
Diverse Teachers

In this introduction, we hear from two U.S.  presidents and ask what it means to be an American.

Free Immigration Lesson

01

Explore the history of immigration to the United States, the meaning of U.S. citizenship, and the role immigration has played in the building of U.S. society.

Free Civil Liberties & Equity Lessons

02

What is the meaning and value of civil liberties? Examine a historical case study and draw parallels to modern issues.

Free Civic Engagement Lessons

03

Examine the rights and responsibilities of citizens in a democracy and why civic engagement is essential for democratic societies.

OVERVIEW
IMMIGRATION
CIVIL LIBERTIES & EQUITY
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Free Justice and Reconciliation Lessons

04

Examine modern-day social justice issues, the role that justice and reconciliation play in society, and the Japanese American Redress Movement.

Free Leadership Lessons

05

What are the characteristics of effective leadership, and how do we foster those qualities in ourselves and others?

Free U.S.–Japan Relations Lessons

06

 Investigate the history and current state of U.S.–Japan relations and consider the role individuals can play in bridging together different cultures.

Lesson Glossary

Here's a comprehensive collection of vocabulary terms and concepts from all six lessons.

 

JUSTICE & RECONCILIATION
LEADERSHIP
U.S.–JAPAN RELATIONS
GLOSSARY
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“This curriculum springboards off of the inspiring life of civil servant, leader and legend in his own time, Secretary Norman Y. Mineta.
We need this now more than ever.”

— IGNACIO ORNELAS RODRIGUEZ

Ph.D., Willow Glen High School and Stanford University

WHAT EDUCATORS ARE SAYING

What Does It Mean To Be An American? Free Curriculum

What Does It Mean
To Be An American?

Curriculum for high school and college students that examines what it means to be an American developed by the Mineta Legacy Project and Stanford’s SPICE program.

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By sparking conversations about identity and history, we go beyond the four walls of a classroom to teach meaningful lessons that are relevant to our lives today.

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These lessons are designed to encourage critical thinking through class activities and discussions.

Discussions

Close-up readings

Interactive activities