MIDDLE SCHOOL WRITING PROMPTS
• May 2008 •

Create a Program for a Memorial Day Celebration

On the last Monday of May, Americans observe Memorial Day. Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day was first observed on May 30, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. Southerners honored their dead on separate days until after World War I when the holiday changed from revering just those who died fighting in the Civil War to paying tribute to Americans who died fighting in any war.

Imagine you are in charge of your school's next assembly observing Memorial Day. How would you design the event? Using The Memorial Day Foundation's Web site and search engines, find some suggestions about how to celebrate Memorial Day and honor the fallen soldiers. Then, create a program of events that would accompany the assembly. Your program should include, but not be limited to, the following:

• A brief history of the creation of Memorial Day
• A special guest—possibly a war veteran
• Participation in the "National Moment of Remembrance"
• Lists of essays or other written works by classmates and famous authors about Memorial Day

When you've completed your program, share it with your classmates. Also, ask your teacher if you could hold a celebration in your classroom or with the entire school, using the program you've outlined.