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Teach PA History
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Explore PA History
Are We There Yet? The Changing Pocono Vacation
Equipment & Supplies
  • Supplies and Equipment: LCD or overhead projector Computers with internet access Writing utensils
Procedures

Steps:

Day One



1. Begin the lesson by asking the class, "Has anyone ever visited the Poconos?". Describe its geography. (Ex: Pocono Mts., Delaware River) For what recreational activities is it known? (Ex: hiking, skiing, honeymoons) Can you name any popular resorts and/or tourist attractions? (Ex: Camelback, Skytop, Nascar Speedway)

2. Once the class has generated a solid overall description of the Pocono region, ask if any students have ever heard of the Unity House resort. Chances are, no one will know of this resort since it closed in 1990. Explain that although it was a vacation resort, its purpose reached far beyond providing relaxation. At this point, distribute marker Student Handout 1-Origins of Unity House. Explain the historical background information so students can use it as a reference guide in completing the assignment to follow. When discussing section II of the notes, project ILGWU labor organizer Min Matheson, circa 1975 and Min Matheson. Likewise, when discussing section III of the notes, project Unity House Chorus and A circle dance on the lawn in front of the early Unity House lodge. Upon finishing the notes, allow for questions.

3. Distribute marker Student Worksheet 1-Unity House - Not Your Typical Pocono Resort. Instruct the students to count off by three's. All #1 students should complete "Segment One: Beginnings" on the worksheet. All #2 students should complete "Segment Two: The Fight". All #3 students should complete "Segment Three: Impact". This will allow for individual reflection and analysis of primary accounts of the Unity House experience. When finished, students should form of group with two other students who completed the two remaining segments. Designate time for the trios to share and record their responses. Finally, facilitate a whole-group discussion based on the similar and opposing viewpoints of segment questions and themes.

4. At the end of the class, inform students that the next lesson is web-based and requires investigation into how today's Pocono vacations differ somewhat from those taken during the Unity House era.

5. Consider assigning a reflective journal response for homework based on the following question: "If, at the end of the school year, you were awarded a weekend resort getaway in the Poconos for achieving honor roll all four marking periods, what type of resort would you prefer? Further, what 'extra' do you feel you would deserve if you also had perfect attendance all year. Finally, do you think an all expense-paid Pocono getaway would inspire students at your school to work harder? Why or why not?"


Day Two



1. Begin the lesson with a brief summary of content and themes from the previous class. Explain that this lesson will focus more on the contemporary role of the Pocono region as a vacation destination. Refer to marker Student Handout 2-The Poconos Today. This background information will offer a fitting segue into the student assignment.

2. marker Distribute Student Worksheet 2-Planning a Pocono Getaway Review the assignment components and assessment criteria. Of particular importance is the scenario section. Direct the students to choose one scenario from the three choices. Students should then commence their internet research using the recommended websites and any others they find helpful. Monitor student progress and address questions.

3. Towards the end of the class, announce a deadline date for assignment submission. Emphasize the importance of referring to the Assessment Rubric while completing the tasks.

4. On the day students submit the assignments you may want to initiate a discussion that provides an opportunity to share their vacation ideas. Be sure to highlight comparisons and contrasts among the three difference scenarios. This will allow for an overall reflection on integral lesson topics such as demographics, economics, and the physical and cultural assets of the Pocono region.
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