2nd Grade Civics & Government — Our Nation — Symbols, Laws, and Freedom
Students will learn the meaning of the Pledge of Allegiance and understand why we say it.
Every morning in many schools across America, children stand, place their hand over their heart, and say the Pledge of Allegiance. But what do those words really mean?
'I pledge allegiance' means 'I promise to be loyal.' 'To the flag of the United States of America' means we are loyal to our country and what it stands for. 'And to the republic for which it stands' means we support our nation's government, which is chosen by the people.
'One nation under God' reminds us that America was founded on trust in God. 'Indivisible' means we cannot be divided — we stick together. 'With liberty and justice for all' means freedom and fairness for every person.
When we say the Pledge, we are thanking God for our country and promising to be good citizens. Our Founding Fathers believed that America should always be 'one nation under God,' and that is why those words are in our Pledge.
Practice saying the Pledge of Allegiance slowly, pausing after each phrase. Draw a picture of yourself standing with your hand over your heart in front of the flag.