Last update: 04/15/2008

Curriculum Ideas - Washington State Government and History

Information you might want to review with your students before visiting the State Capitol:

  • Know what year Washington became a state and after what historical person our state was named.
  • Know the state tree, flower, bird, rock, colors and animal.
  • Know the names of our current Governor and Secretary of State.
  • Be able to name the three branches of government.
  • Know the name of a legislator from your school's legislative district.
  • Understand the basic process of how a bill becomes a law in the Washington State Legislature. Know when the next legislative election will be held and know the length of terms for your Representatives, Senator and the Governor

Activities to enjoy before or after your visit to Olympia:

  • Washington state coloring bookThe Evergreen State is Washington's official nickname. Have students tell why they think Washington has this nickname. Then have them make up a new nickname and tell why they chose it.
  • The state song of Washington is Washington, My Home by Helen Davis. Learn to sing or play the state song in music class. Make up a new song with your students.
  • Washington's state flower is rhododendron, and the state bird is the goldfinch. Have students pick a new state symbol for Washington. They could draw a picture of it and tell why they chose it.
  • Washington's state seal bears a portrait of George Washington and the year 1889. Have students design their own state seal and explain the symbols that they have chosen. (See state coloring book.)
  • Elect a “mock legislature” in your class, draft a bill and pass it through your legislature.
  • Have students write a newspaper article about their visit to the State Capitol.
  • Research a current legislative topic of interest to the class. Students could write letters to their legislators regarding the issue.