Showing results by author "Danielle Smith-Llera" in All Categories

Hate crime in the United States is on the rise. The FBI has reported that hate crimes rose by 17 percent in 2017, increasing for the third straight year, and the trend continued into 2018 and 2019. The crimes are most commonly motivated by hatred related to race, ethnicity, or country of origin. Many crimes are also motivated by bias against sexual orientation or gender identity. Students will learn why hate crime is on the rise and how they can help combat it.

What has been called the most famous photograph in the world, and a symbol of the 20th century, began as a spur of the moment snapshot by a Cuban photographer. Alberto Korda transformed a simple photo into a world famous portrait of a larger than life revolutionary.

Two American athletes made history at the 1968 Summer Olympics, but not on the track. They staged a silent protest against racial injustice. Tommie Smith and John Carlos, gold and bronze medalists in the 200-meter sprint, stood with heads bowed and black-gloved fists raised as the national anthem played during the medal ceremony.

The final match of the 2001 US Open featuring tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams was groundbreaking. It was first time siblings had squared off in the final match for more than 100 years. And it was the first time both players were Black. The photo of the smiling Williams sisters holding their trophies after the tennis match appeared in newspapers around the globe. It captured two athletes who fought, and would continue to fight, for a place for women and African-Americans in tennis and the world beyond.

George Washington knew he was setting an example in everything he did. The first American president had been a heroic military commander during the Revolutionary War, leading his forces to victory. As president he would guide the citizens of a new republic with a strong central government. No more would each state make its own decisions. Instead, they would band together, with the beloved Washington leading the way. It was up to him not to abuse the power of his mighty position.

Far in the future, Earth’s oceans have risen. Coastlines have changed to create new islands far from shore. Even worse, Earth has been invaded by aliens known as the Hunters. They are masters of camouflage and enjoy hunting down humans and other creatures for sport. On the island of Humanhattan, one family is ready to make the dangerous trip to the safety of the government Fortress. But when Rio and his friend, Ani, are separated from their parents, they have to rely on their wits and quick reflexes to avoid the deadly Hunters. Will the two young friends survive until help arrives?

Students will learn about the issues surrounding immigration and border security while discovering how they can get involved in helping to find a solution.

Many know Paul Revere by the infamous words, “The British are coming!” But did he really say that? Listeners will learn the facts and the fiction behind Paul Revere’s midnight ride.

On the planet Terranu, two families have established a research base to look for extraterrestrial life. One day four young friends spot a watery tentacle slither out of the nearby river—and a pair of eyes watching from across the water! Soon the two families meet the planet’s natives, but they aren’t pleased by the humans’ presence. The aliens challenge them to a contest.

Meet 25 immigrants who have led the way with life-saving inventions, by opening up sports to women and people of color, and so much more.

Betsy Ross made many flags during the American Revolution, but did she sew the first flag? Learn to separate fact from fiction by listening to this story of the stars and stripes!