Research Skills in Elementary
In today's information-rich world, teaching research skills to young learners has become more crucial than ever. As educators, we must recognize that laying the foundation for these skills should begin as early as elementary school. This article explores why and how we can integrate research skills into early education, ensuring our students are well-equipped for their academic journey and beyond.
Why Research Skills Matter in Elementary Education
Research skills are fundamental to a child's educational development. They encompass:
Critical thinking
Information literacy
Problem-solving
Analytical reasoning
By introducing these skills early, we empower students to:
Become independent learners
Develop curiosity and a love for learning
Prepare for higher education and future careers
Navigate the digital world safely and effectively
When Should We Start Teaching Research Skills?
The answer is simple: as soon as possible. The Common Core Standards suggest that formal research projects should begin in third grade. However, the building blocks of research can be introduced even earlier:
Kindergarten to 2nd Grade: Encourage asking questions and finding simple answers
3rd Grade: Conduct short research projects to build knowledge about a topic
4th Grade: Investigate different aspects of a topic through short research projects
5th Grade: Use multiple sources in short research projects
Who Should Teach Research Skills?
Research education is a collaborative effort involving:
Classroom Teachers
School Librarians
Parents and Guardians
Subject Specialists
Each plays a vital role in nurturing a child's research abilities.
6 Strategies to Integrate Research Skills into Elementary Curriculum
Encourage Inquiry: Teach students to formulate questions and set clear learning intentions.
Promote Diversity: Include materials that cater to various learning styles and backgrounds.
Foster Collaboration: Encourage group projects to expose students to different perspectives.
Teach Information Curation: Show students how to take notes and organize information effectively.
Allow Exploration: Give students the freedom to follow their curiosity within structured learning environments.
Connect to the Wider World: Introduce resources beyond the classroom, such as books, websites, and community experts.
The Role of School Librarians in Research Education
School librarians are pivotal in developing students' research skills. They can:
Collaborate with teachers to integrate research into various subjects
Provide direct instruction on finding and evaluating sources
Create engaging research activities and projects
Introduce students to a wide range of resources
Conclusion: Building a Foundation for Lifelong Learning
By prioritizing research skills in early elementary education, we're not just preparing students for academic success – we're equipping them with tools for lifelong learning. As educators, it's our responsibility to nurture these skills from the earliest stages of a child's education.
Remember, teaching research is an ongoing process. By consistently incorporating these skills into our curriculum, we can help create a generation of informed, curious, and capable learners ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Are you passionate about promoting research skills in elementary education? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don't forget to subscribe to our blog for more insights on information literacy and educational best practices!
Standards-Based Research Topics
As educators, librarians, and homeschooling parents, we're always on the lookout for engaging research topics that spark curiosity in young minds. This guide offers a wide range of curriculum-aligned project ideas for elementary students, focusing on science and social studies. Whether you're planning lessons, guiding library research, or homeschooling, these topics will help foster critical thinking and research skills in your young learners.
Science Research Topics for Elementary Students
Science education in elementary school lays the foundation for future scientific understanding. Here's a list of engaging science research topics, organized by key areas:
Physical Sciences
Forces of Motion
Electricity and Magnets
Properties of Matter
Energy
Waves (Water waves, Light waves)
Earth and Space Sciences
Ecosystems
Fossils (Marine fossils, Tropical plant fossils, Extinct organisms)
Seasons (Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer)
Climate in Regions of the World
Weather-related Hazards (Flooding, Lightning, Wind)
Rock Formations
Weathering and Erosion
Topographic Maps
Volcanoes and Earthquakes
Geosphere, Biosphere, Hydrosphere, Atmosphere
Water Distribution (Oceans, Glaciers, Lakes, Wetlands, Streams)
Gravity
The Universe
Earth and the Solar System
Life Sciences
Plants and Animals (Life cycles, Habitats, Characteristics)
Plant Structure
Animal Structure
Energy in Organisms (What animals eat, How plants get energy, Food webs)
Technology and Engineering
Information Technology (Computers, Telephones, Musical Instruments)
Natural Resources
Social Studies Research Topics for Elementary Students
Social studies help students understand their place in the world and how societies function. Here are some engaging topics for young researchers:
Government and Civics
State Governments
National Government
Three Branches of Government
Declaration of Independence
US Constitution
Bill of Rights
Historical Figures and Events
Founding Fathers (George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Hancock, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin)
American Indians
Early Explorers
Colonization of North America
Boston Tea Party
American Revolution
Louisiana Purchase
Gold Rush
Civil War
Great Depression
Dust Bowl
American Culture and Symbols
American Inventions and Innovations
The Liberty Bell
The Statue of Liberty
Mount Rushmore
The National Anthem
US Flag
The White House
Geography
Regions of the United States
Regions of the World
Continents and Oceans
Maps
Economics
Natural Resources
Money
Capitalism
Global Studies
World Cultures
Aligning Research Topics with Educational Standards
When selecting research topics, it's crucial to consider educational standards:
Science Standards: Refer to your state's science standards, which are often aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The National Science Teachers Association website offers valuable resources on NGSS.
Social Studies Standards: Consult the National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies from the National Council for the Social Studies. Additionally, check your state, county, or district standards for specific requirements.
Remember, while these topics align with typical elementary curricula, don't hesitate to explore subjects beyond the current grade level. This approach helps build both depth and breadth of knowledge in young researchers.
Conclusion
Engaging elementary students in research projects not only enhances their knowledge but also develops crucial skills like critical thinking, information literacy, and scientific inquiry. By offering a diverse range of topics in science and social studies, we can cater to different interests and learning styles, making research an exciting adventure for young minds.
Remember to guide students through the research process, teaching them how to find reliable sources, take notes, and present their findings. With the right support and engaging topics, elementary research projects can be a rewarding experience for both educators and students alike.
Do Libraries Still Use Dewey Decimal?
In an age of digital catalogs and online searches, a common question arises: Do libraries still use the Dewey Decimal System? The answer is a resounding yes. Not only do libraries continue to rely on this time-tested classification method, but understanding the Dewey Decimal System remains a valuable life skill in our information-rich world.
What is the Dewey Decimal System?
Invented by Melvil Dewey in 1876, the Dewey Decimal System is a method of organizing nonfiction books in libraries. It divides knowledge into ten main classes, each further subdivided into more specific categories. This hierarchical structure allows for precise classification and easy location of books on shelves.
The Continued Use of Dewey Decimal in Libraries
Despite the digital revolution, many libraries, particularly school and public libraries, still use the Dewey Decimal System. Here's why:
Efficient Organization: The system provides a logical, consistent way to arrange books, making it easier for librarians to manage collections.
User-Friendly Navigation: Once understood, the system allows library patrons to quickly locate books on specific subjects.
Adaptability: The system is regularly updated to include new subjects and concepts, ensuring its relevance in the modern world.
Cost-Effective: Many libraries have used this system for decades, making a complete overhaul to a new system costly and time-consuming.
The Dewey Decimal System as a Life Skill
Learning the Dewey Decimal System offers benefits beyond the library walls:
Information Literacy: Understanding how knowledge is categorized helps develop critical thinking and research skills.
Transferable Skills: The principles of the Dewey Decimal System can be applied to organizing personal libraries, digital files, or even planning research projects.
Navigating Different Libraries: The system's widespread use means that skills learned in one library can be applied in others.
Online Catalog Searches: Many digital library catalogs still use Dewey Decimal numbers, making searches more efficient for those familiar with the system.
The Dewey Decimal System in the Digital Age
While some argue that the rise of digital resources makes the Dewey Decimal System obsolete, it continues to prove its worth:
Hybrid Approaches: Many libraries now use a combination of physical organization and digital catalogs, with the Dewey Decimal System bridging both worlds.
Enhanced Digital Searches: Dewey numbers can be used to refine online searches, helping users find related materials more easily.
Visual Browsing: The physical arrangement of books according to the Dewey system allows for serendipitous discoveries that purely digital systems may not facilitate.
Teaching the Dewey Decimal System
For educators and librarians, introducing students to the Dewey Decimal System can be both fun and educational:
Scavenger Hunts: Create engaging activities where students search for books using Dewey numbers.
Classification Games: Develop games where students categorize various topics into the main Dewey classes.
Digital Tools: Utilize online resources and apps that teach the Dewey Decimal System interactively.
Conclusion
The Dewey Decimal System, far from being outdated, continues to play a crucial role in organizing and accessing knowledge in libraries worldwide. As a fundamental tool for information literacy, it remains relevant in our digital age. By understanding this system, library users of all ages can navigate the vast sea of information more effectively, whether in a traditional library setting or the boundless realm of online resources.
Learning the Dewey Decimal System is more than just a way to find books on shelves; it's a gateway to efficient information gathering, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. As we continue to value libraries as centers of knowledge and community, the Dewey Decimal System stands as a testament to the enduring power of organized information in our ever-evolving world.
Empower with Research Skills
Research skills are fundamental to academic success and lifelong learning. As educators, it's crucial to introduce and develop these skills early in a student's academic journey. This guide focuses on effective strategies for teaching research in elementary school, particularly for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students.
Why Teach Research in Elementary School?
Teaching research skills in elementary school:
Builds critical thinking abilities
Enhances information literacy
Fosters curiosity and independent learning
Prepares students for higher academic levels
Develops lifelong learning habits
Three Effective Approaches to Elementary Research
1. Building Background Knowledge
Before diving into a new topic, use guided research to establish foundational knowledge. This approach helps students engage more meaningfully with the upcoming lesson.
Example Activity: "This week, we'll study the U.S. Constitution. First, let's research key facts about the Constitution. Form questions and find reliable sources to learn more. This preparation will enhance your understanding of our upcoming lessons."
2. Deepening Understanding
Use research projects during or after a lesson to reinforce and expand on the taught material.
Example Activity: "Now that we've covered the U.S. Constitution, reflect on what you've learned and what you'd like to know more about. Use credible sources to answer your additional questions, deepening your understanding of the topic."
3. Bridging Knowledge Gaps
Employ guided research to address topics that might have been missed in earlier grades or to preview future subjects.
Tip for Teachers: Maintain a list of age-appropriate research topics for students and parents. This resource should cover expected knowledge from previous grades, current grade-level topics, and preview subjects for the next grade.
Essential Research Skills for Elementary Students
Focus on teaching two fundamental skills:
Asking thoughtful questions
Finding and evaluating answers
While college-level research involves complex steps, elementary research should concentrate on:
Formulating good questions
Assessing source reliability
Extracting relevant information
Organizing information effectively
Fostering a Love for Learning
The ultimate goal of teaching research skills is to nurture curious, engaged learners. By empowering students with the ability to find answers independently, we're setting them up for a lifetime of learning.
Remember, research isn't just about formal papers—it's about satisfying curiosity and building knowledge. With information readily available, teaching these skills allows students to take charge of their learning journey.
Practical Tips for Teaching Research
Start with simple, interesting topics
Teach basic library skills (using catalogs, finding nonfiction books)
Introduce safe online search techniques
Encourage critical thinking about source reliability
Make research fun through gamification or collaborative projects
By incorporating these strategies, you'll help your elementary students develop crucial research skills, preparing them for academic success and nurturing their natural curiosity.
Remember, the key to effective research in elementary grades is to keep it engaging, relevant, and age-appropriate. As educators, we have the power to transform our students into avid readers and lifelong learners!
Teach Research to Elementary Students
As a school librarian, I've seen firsthand how crucial research skills are for young learners. In this guide, we'll explore effective strategies for teaching research to elementary students, empowering them to become confident and capable information seekers.
Why Teach Research Skills in Elementary School?
Before diving into the "how," let's address the "why." Teaching research skills early on:
Fosters critical thinking
Enhances information literacy
Prepares students for higher education
Encourages lifelong learning
Boosts engagement in the classroom
5 Essential Steps for Teaching Research Skills
1. Start with Inquiry Questions
All good research begins with curiosity. Teach students to formulate clear, focused questions about their topics. For younger students, you might provide a list of questions, while older elementary students can practice creating their own.
Pro Tip: Create a bank of 365 research questions covering various subjects to spark curiosity and provide inspiration throughout the year.
2. Prepare Appropriate Resources
Gone are the days of sending students on unsupervised internet searches. Instead:
Curate a list of age-appropriate websites, books, and magazines
Collaborate with your school librarian to find reliable sources
Create a classroom "research station" with vetted materials
Resource Alert: Check out my Database of Sources for Elementary Research Projects for a comprehensive list of kid-friendly research materials.
3. Teach Effective Note-Taking
Introduce students to the basics of note-taking and citation:
Model how to paraphrase information in their own words
Teach simple citation formats appropriate for their grade level
Use fun mnemonics or acronyms to help them remember citation elements
Tool Tip: I've created a Google Slides presentation with worksheets on how to cite a book – perfect for introducing citation basics!
4. Introduce Source Evaluation
Help students develop critical thinking skills by teaching them to evaluate sources. Use the kid-friendly T.U.R.N. test:
T - Trusty: Is the source reliable?
U - Useful: Does it answer our questions?
R - Right: Is it relevant to our topic?
N - New: Is the information up-to-date?
5. Guide the Research Process
Break the research process into manageable steps:
Choose a topic (or provide a list)
Formulate questions
Gather sources
Take notes and record sources
Organize information
Present findings (This doesn't always have to be a formal paper!)
Creative Ways to Showcase Research
Remember, not all research projects need to culminate in a traditional report. Consider these engaging alternatives:
Create a poster or infographic
Design a digital presentation
Produce a short video or podcast
Develop a hands-on demonstration or experiment
Write and perform a skit or song
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Information overload: Start with small, focused projects and gradually increase complexity.
Plagiarism concerns: Emphasize the importance of using one's own words from the beginning.
Lack of engagement: Connect research topics to students' interests or current curriculum whenever possible.
Conclusion: Empowering Young Researchers
By teaching research skills in elementary school, we're not just preparing students for academic success – we're nurturing curious, critical thinkers who are equipped to navigate our information-rich world. With patience, creativity, and the right tools, you can transform your students into confident young researchers.
Remember, the goal isn't perfection, but progress. Celebrate each step your students take on their research journey, and watch as their skills and confidence grow!
Looking for more resources to support your elementary research instruction? Don't miss my free printable T.U.R.N. test poster .
Statehood Order
Help kids research fun facts about the states!
Below is a list of the states in order of statehood. In most states, students learn about the states in fourth grade. Each state may have its own social studies standards, or they may use the National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies.
Note: Each book cover is an Amazon link. Click to view on Amazon.com. This site may receive a small affiliate commission.
The States in Order of Statehood
1. Delaware
Delaware was one of the original 13 colonies. It became the first state in 1787. Many people in Delaware work for banks or companies that make medicines. President Joe Biden was a senator in Delaware for 36 years. Delaware is the first state in order of statehood.
DELAWARE SOCIAL STUDIES STANDARDS
2. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania became the second state right after Delaware in 1787. It is the place where America’s founders met to write the US constitution. Today’s visitors love to eat the state's most famous foods, cheesesteaks and soft pretzels. Pennsylvania is the 2nd state in order of statehood.
3. New Jersey
New Jersey became the third state in 1787. It is known for its dense population and sprawling cities. The Atlantic City boardwalk is famous for its amusements and beaches. New Jersey is the 3rd state in order of statehood.
4. Georgia
Georgia became the 4th state on January 2, 1788. It is home to some of the biggest businesses. The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta airport services more passengers than any other airport in the world. Georgia is the 4th state in order of statehood. GEORGIA GUIDED RESEARCH PROJECT
5. Connecticut
Connecticut became a state in 1788. It was one of the original 13 colonies. Because it is close to New York City, many banking and financial businesses have offices in Connecticut. Mark Twain lived in Connecticut when he wrote about The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Connecticut is the 5th state in order of statehood.
6. Massachusetts
Massachusetts became the 6th state in 1788. Its capital has been Boston since Massachusetts was founded as a colony in the early 1600s. Paul Revere was a silversmith from Boston. Massachusetts is the 6th state in order of statehood.
7. Maryland
Maryland was one of the original 13 British colonies that became the 7th state in 1788. It is located close to the capital of Washington, D.C. and is home to many federal offices. Maryland is the 7th state in order of statehood.
8. South Carolina
South Carolina became the eighth state in 1788. It is known for college football and has more than 450 golf courses. Many famous people are from the state, including Jesse Jackson and Nikki Haley. South Carolina is the 8th state in order of statehood.
9. New Hampshire
New Hampshire became the 9th state in 1788. As one of the original 13 colonies, it is a state rich in history going back to the American Revolution. It is home to the first free library in the United States, which was established in 1833. New Hampshire is the 9th state in order of statehood.
10. Virginia
Virginia became the tenth state in 1788. It is home to many politicians because it is close to the capital. More presidents have been born in Virginia than in any other state. Virginia is the 10th state in order of statehood.
11. New York
New York became the 11th state in 1788. In 1792, the New York Stock Exchange was created and this attracted banks and financial businesses to the state. The Statue of Liberty stands in the New York Harbor. New York is the 11th state in order of statehood.
12. North Carolina
North Carolina became the twelfth state in 1789. It is known for agriculture. The farmers there grow over half of all the sweet potatoes produced in the United States each year. North Carolina is the 12th state in order of statehood.
13. Rhode Island
Rhode Island became a state in 1790. It is known as the Ocean State because it has more than 400 miles of coastline. That’s a lot, considering it is the smallest state in the country. Fishing and tourism are important industries there. Rhode Island is the 13th state in order of statehood.
14. Vermont
Vermont became the 14th state in 1791. It is known for its ski slopes. Olympic skiers often train in Vermont. It is one of the coldest states in the country. Vermont is the 14th state in order of statehood.
15. Kentucky
Kentucky became the 15th state in 1792.It is famous for its bluegrass music, a style of country music; and for the Kentucky Derby, a horse race. President Abraham Lincoln was born on a farm in Kentucky. Kentucky is the 15th state in order of statehood.
16. Tennessee
Tennessee became the 16th state in 1796. It is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the most visited park in the country. Tennesseans love sports and bluegrass music. Tennessee is the 16th state in order of statehood.
17. Ohio
Ohio became the 17th state in 1803. It is the birthplace of many U.S. Presidents. Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, is from Ohio. Ohio is the 17th state in order of statehood.
18. Louisiana
Louisiana became the 18th state in 1812 after its land was purchased from France. New Orleans has been a valuable center of trade and farming since then. Many people in Louisiana enjoy sports, Cajun food, and jazz music. Louisiana is the 18th state in order of statehood.
19. Indiana
Indiana became the 19th state in 1816. It is bordered by Lake Michigan. Many people enjoy visiting the Indiana Dunes. Indiana is called the Hoosier state, which comes from a Native American word for corn. Indiana is the 19th state in order of statehood.
20. Mississippi
Mississippi became the 20th state in 1817. It is known for blues music. Famous musicians like Elvis Presley and B.B. King are from Mississippi. Many rivers flow through the state with the biggest one being the Mississippi River. Mississippi is the 20th state in order of statehood.
21. Illinois
Illinois became the 21st state in 1818. It is famous for its sports teams, the Chicago Cubs baseball, the Bears football, and the Bulls basketball. Much of the state outside of Chicago is farmland. Illinois is the 21st state in order of statehood.
22. Alabama
Alabama became the 22nd state in 1819. It is the birthplace of Mae Jemison, the first woman in space. Many people like to visit Alabama to go hiking in the mountains, enjoy the sandy Gulf Coast beaches, do business in the cities, and visit the historic sites. Alabama is the 22nd state in order of statehood. ALABAMA SOCIAL STUDIES STANDARDS
23. Maine
Maine became the 23rd state in 1820. It is known for its lobster fishing heritage. More than a few famous writers are from Maine, such as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, E.B. White, and Stephen King. Maine is the 23rd state in order of statehood.
24. Missouri
Missouri became the 24th state in 1821. It is famous for the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Many people in the state work in factories or on farms. Missouri is a top producer of soybeans. Missouri is the 24th state in order of statehood.
25. Arkansas
Arkansas became the 25th state in 1836. It is known for its natural resources, such as gas, coal, and materials used to make aluminum. People in Arkansas are surrounded by mountains, rivers, lakes, and plains that are abundant with wildlife. Arkansas is the 25th state in order of statehood.
26. Michigan
Michigan became the 26th state in 1837. It is known for producing automobiles, and for the Great Lakes. Many famous athletes and musicians are from Michigan, such as Aretha Franklin, Madonna, Magic Johnson and Serena Williams.
27. Florida
Florida became the 27th state on March 3, 1845. It is known for its sunny beaches and warm weather. Our nation's oldest city, St. Augustine, is in Florida.
28. Texas
Texas became the 28th state in 1845 after gaining independence from Mexico. It is known for cattle ranching. Texas has more ranches than any other state. President Lyndon B. Johnson was born in Texas.
29. Iowa
Iowa became the 29th state in 1846. It is known for agriculture. There are more than 30 million acres of farmland in Iowa, for growing corn and wheat, and for hog farming.
30. Wisconsin
Wisconsin became the 30th state in 1848. It is known for its dairy farms with over 1 million cows. Wisconsin is also the leading producer of cranberries in the country. WISCONSIN GUIDED RESEARCH PROJECT
31. California
California became the 31st state in 1850 after a short time as its own country, called the California Republic. It is famous for gold discoveries in the early 1800s. Californians like to surf in the ocean and attend professional sporting events. The state is the location for many businesses that make computers and produce entertainment.
32. Minnesota
Minnesota became the 32nd state in 1858. It is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” because of its many bodies of water. People there like to swim or fish in summer, and go skating or play hockey in winter.
33. Oregon
Oregon became the 33rd state in 1859. It is located on the Pacific Coast. Oregon is home to mountains with several famous waterfalls. The state is a major source of lumber and seafood.
34. Kansas
Kansas became the 34th state in 1861 after it was bought as part of the Louisiana Purchase. Its location is in the “heart” of America, at the center of the country. The state is a major source of power from coal mines, windmills, and solar power plants.
35. West Virginia
West Virginia became the 35th state in 1863. It is known as the mountain state because the Appalachian Mountains lie along its border. West Virginia produces more coal than any other state.
36. Nevada
Nevada became the 36th state in 1864. It is the home of Las Vegas, a city rich with magic shows, live music, and comedy performances. Nevada’s landscape is mostly desert. It also has one of the largest lakes in the United States— Lake Tahoe.
37. Nebraska
Nebraska became the 37th state in 1867. It is part of a region called the Great Plains. President Gerald Ford was born in Omaha, Nebraska, home of the famous Reuben sandwich.
38. Colorado
Colorado became the 38th state in 1876. It home to the U.S. Mint — where money is made. The states natural beauty has inspired authors to write books its cowboys and ranchers, artists to make paintings of its landscapes, and musicians to sing songs about its mountains.
39. North Dakota
North Dakota became the 39th state in 1889. It is known for its rugged landscape, called the Badlands. Sitting Bull, a famous Native American leader, was born in the Dakota Territory.
40. South Dakota
South Dakota became the 40th state in 1889. It is home to Mount Rushmore. Many tourists flock to South Dakota to visit the Old West towns and rodeos.
41. Montana
Montana became the 41st state in 1889. It is known for its mountains. Because of its many gold and silver mines, Montana is called the “Treasure State.” It’s also called “Big Sky Country” because of the state’s wide open spaces.
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42. Washington
Washington became the 42nd state in 1889. It is the only state named after the U.S. President. Workers in Washington build gigantic airplanes, as well as tiny computer parts.
43. Idaho
Idaho became the 43rd state in 1890. Its location is on the border of Canada, above Utah. It is known for its canyons, including the deepest gorge in the country. The state is most famous for its potato crops.
44. Wyoming
Wyoming became the 44th state in 1890. It is home to the first national forest, tall mountains, and “singing” sand dunes.
45. Utah
Utah became the 45th state in 1896. It is the location of Kolob Arch and other famous rock formations. There are five national parks and many ski resorts in the state.
46. Oklahoma
Oklahoma became the 46th state in 1907. It is known for its oil wells. Tulsa was once called the Oil Capital of the World. The people of Oklahoma enjoy many outdoor activities, like camping and going to a rodeo.
47. New Mexico
New Mexico became the 47th state in 1912. It was a U.S. territory for more than 60 years starting in 1946. The scenery of New Mexico is the subject of many famous artists, including Georgia O’Keeffe. People in the state like to hunt or cycle in summer, and ski or snowboard in winter.
48. Arizona
Arizona became the 48th state in 1912. It is the location of the Navajo Nation Fair, one of the world’s largest Native American gatherings. Millions of people go to Arizona each year to visit Grand Canyon.
49. Alaska
Alaska became the 49th state in 1959. It is located close to the North Pole. The state is vast and plentiful with natural resources. Alaska is home to 24 national parks.
50. Hawaii
Hawaii became the 50th state in 1959. It is known for its beaches and volcanoes. Hawaii is the world’s longest chain of islands. The state’s main source of income is the tourism industry. Many people go there to surf and to experience the culture.
States in Order of Statehood
1 Delaware
2 Pennsylvania
3 New Jersey
4 Georgia
5 Connecticut
6 Massachusetts
7 Maryland
8 South Carolina
9 New Hampshire
10 Virginia
11 New York
12 North Carolina
13 Rhode Island
14 Vermont
15 Kentucky
16 Tennessee
17 Ohio
18 Louisiana
19 Indiana
20 Mississippi
21 Illinois
22 Alabama
23 Maine
24 Missouri
25 Arkansas
26 Michigan
27 Florida
28 Texas
29 Iowa
30 Wisconsin
31 California
32 Minnesota
33 Oregon
34 Kansas
35 West Virginia
36 Nevada
37 Nebraska
38 Colorado
39 North Dakota
40 South Dakota
41 Montana
42 Washington
43 Idaho
44 Wyoming
45 Utah
46 Oklahoma
47 New Mexico
48 Arizona
49 Alaska
50 Hawaii
