Curriculum Materials

Students will: describe some of the feelings immigrants faced when deciding on a new settlement in the United States; contrast the benefits and drawbacks of living in a new location when determining a place to live and compare that to the choices immigrants make past and present; and formulate several reasons why immigrants elected to live in selected areas.

Students will describe some of the difficulties immigrants faced when processed at Ellis Island, and identify with some of the hopes and reservations (feelings) of immigrants arriving to the United States.

The legal inspection was next. For immigrants, this was the final test to pass before a new life in America. Do your students have what it takes to pass the dreaded legal examination? Through role playing, let’s see if your students can get into America too!

As immigrants finished processing at Ellis Island, many waited with hopes, fears, and anticipation about where they chose to settle. Some preferred the comforts of immigrant communities nearby. Others hoped to find better job opportunities outside the greater New York City area. Finding a Home simulates the experience of being a newly-arrived immigrant excited to take their next steps in America.

Leaving one’s country can be tough! This lesson plan explores the different reasons why individuals and immigrant communities would elect to move from one country to another.

Are you looking for a well thought out guide for your next field trip to Ellis Island? Check out this great source of information for teachers!

Are you looking for a well thought out guide for your next field trip to Ellis Island? Check out this great source of information for teachers!

Our most popular activity sheet! Students will play the role as a detective who will uncover the process immigrants went through at Ellis Island. Join us on that voyage today!

Coming to Ellis Island on a field trip? This self-guided activity is a great way for students to learn about the original inspection immigrants had to pass upon their arrival.

One of the best things to do on your field trip to Ellis Island. With a large auditorium setting for your class, narrator Gene Hackman will guide your students through the immigrant journey with this classic film! This activity sheet is a great way to keep your students engaged as they explore the historic footage of Ellis Island's past!