State Symbols and Landmarks

The students in Mrs. Peacock’s first grade class have been working hard on their math skills. Now it’s time for Read Aloud.

Mrs. Peacock holds the book up for everyone to see. She explains that today’s book was chosen by Skylar in library time yesterday. The book is about state symbols and landmarks. Mrs. Peacock opens the book and begins to read.

There are 50 states in the United States. Each state has a special history of how it came to be. Some of a state’s history can be told through its symbols and landmarks.

Texas has a state flag as its symbol. It is called the “Lone Star” state because there is one star on the flag.

Long ago, Texas was part of Mexico. The people who lived in Texas fought to be free from Mexico at a place called The Alamo. This is an important landmark that reminds us of that struggle.

California, a state on the west coast, also has a flag as a symbol. The flag has a bear on it.

California has many landmarks. One landmark is the Golden Gate Bridge This human-made bridge helps cars and trucks travel every day.

Pennsylvania’s flag is a state symbol that celebrates the many things that are made in the state.

A famous landmark in Pennsylvania is Independence Hall. This is where the Declaration of Independence was signed—and where the Liberty Bell was first rung.

Florida’s flag is a symbol that represents sunshine, flowers, palm trees, and water—all things that can be found in Florida.

One well-known landmark in Florida is Everglades National Park, a wilderness park of water and animals.

Just then, the school bell rings. It’s time for recess. The students run outside, remembering what they have learned about state symbols and landmarks.