Teaching history can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be dull and uninspiring. Today, I want to share some engaging ways to teach about the Florida explorer Juan Ponce de Leon. By incorporating a variety of resources and activities, we can make this historical lesson not only informative, but also captivating for students.
Here are four ways I bring fun and engagement to my social studies lessons on Ponce de Leon (click to jump to the section):
Build Background with Classroom videos
To begin with, building a solid background is essential. These videos can bring history to life and make the subject matter more relatable to students.
This video is short, classroom friendly, engaging, and gives the basic information about who Ponce de Leon was. It could serve as a good lesson opener.
This video is also perfect for the classroom. It provides a good background of why he was looking for the Fountain of Youth and an overview of this conflict with the Calusa.
Build Background with Classroom Books
Who was Ponce de Leon? by Pam Pollack and Meg Belviso.
You know how much students love the Who Was books....
This book is a great way to get kids reading about Florida's history.
Juan Ponce de Leon (Jr. Graphic Famous Explorers) by Andrea Pelleschi
The reading level of this book is low - probably 2nd or 3rd grade but its graphic novel features make it engaging for students.
Engaging Hands-on Practice
Add another layer of learning with these hands-on task cards about Ponce de Leon. I like to post the task cards around the room or place them in a center. Students read the paragraphs on the cards to answer questions on the worksheet and solve the riddles.
It's easy for you and fun for them!
Independent Practice
By the time your students get to the independent practice, they will be ready to add another layer of detail to their strong background knowledge. Typically, I add the independent work to my students' reading center checklists.
Personally, I like having resources that
are print-and-go ready
have informational texts aligned to my standards
and include comprehension activities that were easy to grade.
After building background with videos and books, providing hands-on engagement with task cards, and assigning independent practice and comprehension activities, your students will know everything they need to know about Ponce de Leon.
Hopefully, these ideas help you bring some interest and excitement to your social studies block. Click below to grab your FREE...yeah FREE task card activity. I want you to have it and let me know how it goes!
**Please note the links above may be affiliate or sponsored links where I get a small commission - at no extra cost to you - by sharing my links.
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