Remembrance Day Classroom Resources
Every year we dedicate a day to remembering those that have fought and died in the line of duty to protect the freedoms we enjoy every day. Since 1931 we have called this day Remembrance Day in Canada, the UK and many Commonwealth countries. Finding ways to honour Remembrance Day is an important way of ensuring future generations remember the sacrifices made in the past. Here are some Remembrance Day activities, worksheets and crafts for the classroom or homeschool.
Remembrance Day Activities For Students
Disclaimer: This article may contain commission or affiliate links. As an Amazon Influencer I earn from qualifying purchases.
Not seeing our videos? Turn off any adblockers to ensure our video feed can be seen. Or visit our YouTube channel to see if the video has been uploaded there. We are slowly uploading our archives. Thanks!
Remembrance Day is celebrated by members of the Commonwealth on November 11 at 11am. Traditionally marked by a moment of silence, laying of wreaths, military parades and more, it is a chance to honour, remember and say thank you. It is important that we teach kids the significance of this day, so they understand why we must never forget.
What is Remembrance Day?
Remembrance Day was first celebrated in 1919 throughout the Commonwealth. It was originally known as Armistice Day to commemorate the armistice agreement that ended the First World War on Monday, November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m. (the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month).
In 1931 the name was changed to Remembrance Day and is a day to honour and remember the millions who have served, fought and paid the ultimate price through times of war, conflict and peace.
Why the Poppy?
The Poppy is the official symbol of Remembrance Day. Many wear poppies proudly to show their support with the vibrant red colour becoming a symbol for the blood spilled in the wars.
The poppy was chosen as the symbol of Remembrance Day thanks to the world famous poem In Flanders Fields. It was written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae (a Canadian army doctor). You can hear it here:
Remembrance Day Worksheets
In addition to any community or school assembly ceremony, we have some classroom project ideas for Remembrance Day.
Here are 3 fun, printable learning activities that children between the ages of 7 and 12 will enjoy in observation of Remembrance Day. These are open-ended activities which makes it easy to differentiate for different ages and abilities.
First, join the STEAM Powered Family mailing list to immediately unlock this free printable worksheet. Members of SPF get many free resources including printable resources, activities and more. We never share your information and you can unsubscribe anytime.
Unlock the printable here
We Will Remember Paragraph Craft
In this activity, kids write a paragraph about the reasons we will remember and paint (or colour) the poppy to create a special card that opens to reveal their words.
Simply print the two pages. Next, cut out around the edge of the poppy shapes, then cut along the lines provided to form the two sides of the poppy. Stick the edges to the poppy with the lines, so that the cut poppy can open up like a card and reveal the “We will remember” paragraph inside. Encourage the children to write their paragraphs explaining the reasons we remember the people who fought for our freedom. It may be best to write these paragraphs before assembling your poppies, it makes it easier to write.
TIP: use a “word bank” with younger students- words like: freedom, veteran, peace, war, pride, courage etc. Have a discussion on the meanings of these words beforehand to encourage understanding.
The Ode Word Scrammble
In this activity we read and discuss The Ode poem. Have children unscramble the words on the sheet (HINT: all these words were taken from the poem.) Colour the pretty poppy frame too.
Remembrance Poppy Craft
Build vocabulary with this movable poppy craft.
Print the poppies and cut it out. A blank poppy is also provided so you can make a custom poppy with your own word or the name of a loved one you wish to honour. Colour the words and write the meaning/synonyms of the words on the pages. Use a split pin to attach the poppies to each other so it reads “Remember, honour, courage, peace”. The split pin will make the poppy moveable.
Looking for more Remembrance Day Resources?
The Royal Legion provides a variety information and resources. Check it out here.
Veterans Affairs Canada has a wealth of great resources on their website here.
Check out even more Remembrance Day Crafts over at our friends Redtedart.com
Enjoy these Remembrance Day activities with your school-aged children, as you honour, remember and respect the sacrifices made.
Lest we forget!