Symbols and Ceremonies: Celebrating America

Did you know that "Uncle Sam" is a composite of a real person from the War of 1812 (Uncle Sam Wilson) and "Brother Jonathan," the pejorative British cartoon of Americans? That and many other interesting historical tidbits fill this program which will be popular with students and teachers alike. Topics include the flag, the Pledge, the Great Seal, the Fourth of July, "The Star Spangled Banner" (not mentioning that the atrocious tune was a popular barroom ditty), and the Statue of Liberty. These things used to be taught in public schools, but with curricula crammed with new interests, such as computer instruction, drug abuse awareness, and interpersonal relationship-building classes, citizenship often ends up pushed out of the schedule. One video won't correct that lack, but it's better than nothing, and once again Sunburst's excellent teacher's guide provides ideas for extension activities for an entire citizenship unit. Production-wise, the nine video monitors stacked behind the narrator tend to detract more than they add (one solid projection background would have made for better looking images); still, this is an excellent production covering subjects every American ought to know. Highly recommended. Aud: E, I. (R. Reagan)