Compare And Contrast

Worksheet Description

This worksheet provides a structured framework for students to delve into the historical and contemporary significance of Indigenous People’s Day and contrast it with Columbus Day. It is an educational exercise prompting critical thinking and reflection on these two observances that have been traditionally marked on the same day in the United States. The top section is labeled “Indigenous People’s Day,” the bottom “Columbus Day,” with a shared space in the middle for “Both Indigenous People’s Day and Columbus Day,” inviting students to explore the distinct reasons for commemorating each day and to recognize the common date they share.

The goal of the activity is to guide students in identifying and articulating the different perspectives and historical contexts of each day. Indigenous People’s Day is a celebration of the history, culture, and survival of Indigenous peoples, while Columbus Day has been observed in honor of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. The central section encourages students to consider what the two holidays might have in common, such as the date of observance or broader themes of exploration and history. This exercise is not only educational but also encourages respect for diverse narratives and histories.