The thematic unit, On the Move,
explores the concept of migration. It is designed specifically for
fourth grade general students, English Language Learners, and
students with disabilities. Students explore migration by way of
museum resources, such as posters, activities, projects, and
visits to The Art Institute of Chicago and John G. Shedd Aquarium.
Each lesson is designed for completion during one to two class
periods (40 minutes per period). The approximate length of this
unit is between three to four weeks; however, teacher judgment
should be used during implementation. The unit plan is flexible
and allows for teacher and student creativity. As an option,
teachers may wish to purchase additional copies of Color Me Dark
by Patricia C. McKissack or The Great Migration, Paintings by
Jacob Lawrence. The books could provide enrichment for the
language arts curriculum during the duration of the unit.
