Wisconsin Observance Days

Wisconsin's 21 special observance days are part of state statutes governing general school operations (Wis. Stat. sec. 118.02). In addition, there are federal observances which are either designated by Congress in Title 36 of the United States Code (36 U.S.C. § 101 et seq.), or by presidential proclamation. The links below will take you to resources for each specific Wisconsin observance day. The curated resources are from trusted partners such as universities, government agencies, and non-partisan non-profit organizations. The resources often suggest the use of primary source documents and photographs to help students critically analyze people and events. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction encourages educators to recognize people and groups throughout the year and not just on their special day or month. Observance days are listed in alphabetical order.

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Eric the Red and Leif Ericson Settlers Lesson Plan

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In this lesson, students will explore the travels and discoveries of the Vikings. After viewing a short video about the Eric the Red and Leif Ericson, students will analyze a painting that depicts a Viking ship at sea and then read an Icelandic saga written about the early Norse people. The lesson will conclude with students researching the impact the Vikings had on the region of their choice and completing a report or presentation.

Material Type: Activity/Lab

Author: PBS. Learning Media

Columbus Day vs Leif Erikson Day: Who 'Discovered' America?

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A 2018 TIme Magazine Article that explores the evidence for early European Exploration throughout North America.

Material Type: Activity/Lab

Authors: Olivia B, Time Magazine