The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and the New York State Canal Corporation have released new educational materials geared for fourth graders learning about the Erie Canal. Canal Connections is a series of cross-curricular lesson plans that explore the canal through social studies, science, math, art, reading comprehension, and physical education.
The new materials were produced in partnership with the Erie Canal Museum in Syracuse, with funding support from the National Park Foundation, and are available for free online at the Erie Canal Learning Hub (http://www.eriecanalway.org/learning-hub).
“The Erie Canal’s bicentennial presents a perfect opportunity to engage teachers and students in learning about the canal’s influence on the state and nation. These new lesson plans make it easy for teachers to find high quality educational materials in multiple subject areas,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “When it comes to the Erie Canal, we are always looking for new ways to engage the public, especially our youth. As the Erie Canal turns 200 this year and we think about its legacy and future, these new resources come at the perfect time. Teaching fourth graders – our future leaders – about the past is one of the most noble and important pursuits, and these programs will make it engaging and exciting.”
Natalie Stetson, Executive Director of the Erie Canal Museum said, “We are excited to see how these new lesson plans will engage students in exploring the Erie Canal, not just in the classroom but in their communities. We hope these resources inspire more students to visit the Erie Canal Museum and the many other canal museums throughout the state, experiencing the canal’s history firsthand and deepening their understanding of this transformative part of New York’s heritage.”
The Erie Canal Learning Hub includes videos, 3D tours, field trips, and curriculum materials. It is a joint initiative of Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and New York State Canal Corporation. Visit http://www.eriecanalway.org/learning-hub for more information.
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