Middle School Ela Curriculum Map

Introduction

Middle school is a time for students to explore new concepts, ideas, and cultures. One of the best ways to do this is by traveling. As part of the ELA curriculum map, students can learn about different places around the world through literature and other mediums. However, nothing beats experiencing a place in person. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports for middle school students.

Top Attractions

For middle school students, top attractions can be a mix of fun and educational. In Washington D.C., students can visit the Smithsonian museums, Lincoln Memorial, and the White House. In New York City, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Broadway shows are must-sees. In Los Angeles, students can visit Universal Studios, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Getty Center. In San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf are popular attractions.

Hidden Gems

While popular attractions are great, sometimes it’s the hidden gems that leave a lasting impression. In New Orleans, students can visit the Historic Voodoo Museum or take a ghost tour. In Chicago, the Garfield Park Conservatory and the Chicago Riverwalk are hidden gems. In Seattle, the Gum Wall and the Fremont Troll are must-sees. In Austin, the Cathedral of Junk and the HOPE Outdoor Gallery are unique experiences.

Food Scene

Food is an essential part of any travel experience. In New York City, students can try classic pizza or bagels. In New Orleans, the beignets and jambalaya are a must. In Portland, students can experience the food cart scene or visit Voodoo Doughnut. In San Francisco, students can try clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl or visit the Ferry Building Marketplace.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Students can use public transportation, stay in hostels or Airbnb, pack snacks, and take advantage of student discounts. In New York City, students can visit the High Line or Central Park for free. In San Francisco, the Golden Gate Park and the Cable Car Museum are free.

Outdoor Adventures

For students who love the outdoors, there are plenty of options. In Colorado, students can go skiing or snowboarding in the winter or hiking in the summer. In Hawaii, students can go surfing or snorkeling. In Utah, students can visit Zion National Park or go rock climbing in Moab.

Historical Landmarks

History can come to life when students visit historical landmarks. In Boston, students can walk the Freedom Trail or visit the USS Constitution Museum. In Philadelphia, students can visit Independence Hall or the Liberty Bell. In Atlanta, students can visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site or the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with family can be a great bonding experience. In Orlando, students can visit Walt Disney World or Universal Studios. In San Diego, students can visit the San Diego Zoo or Legoland. In Williamsburg, Virginia, students can visit Colonial Williamsburg or Busch Gardens.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For students who want to get off the beaten path, there are plenty of options. In Marfa, Texas, students can visit the Prada Marfa art installation. In Joshua Tree National Park, students can stargaze or visit the Integratron. In Roswell, New Mexico, students can visit the International UFO Museum and Research Center.

Natural Wonders

Nature can be awe-inspiring. In Yellowstone National Park, students can see geysers and hot springs. In the Grand Canyon, students can hike or take a helicopter tour. In Niagara Falls, students can take a boat tour or visit the Cave of the Winds.

Vibrant Nightlife

For students who want to experience the nightlife, there are plenty of options. In New Orleans, students can visit Bourbon Street or Frenchmen Street. In Las Vegas, students can visit the Strip or downtown. In Miami, students can visit South Beach or Wynwood.

Local Markets

Local markets offer a glimpse into the culture of a place. In Seattle, students can visit Pike Place Market or the Fremont Sunday Market. In Austin, students can visit the Texas Farmers Market or the Hope Farmers Market. In Portland, students can visit the Portland Saturday Market or the Alberta Street Fair.

Beaches and Mountains

Beaches and mountains offer different types of experiences. In Hawaii, students can visit Waikiki Beach or hike Diamond Head. In Colorado, students can visit Aspen or Vail for skiing or hiking. In California, students can visit Santa Monica Pier or hike in Yosemite National Park.

Cultural Immersion

Experiencing different cultures can be a transformative experience. In New York City, students can visit Chinatown or Little Italy. In San Francisco, students can visit the Mission District or Japantown. In Miami, students can visit Little Havana or Little Haiti.

Art and Music Scene

For students who love art and music, there are plenty of options. In Nashville, students can visit the Country Music Hall of Fame or attend a concert at the Grand Ole Opry. In New York City, students can visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art or attend a Broadway show. In Austin, students can attend the South by Southwest music festival or visit the Blanton Museum of Art.

Walking Tours

Walking tours offer a unique perspective on a place. In Savannah, students can take a ghost tour or visit the Bonaventure Cemetery. In Charleston, students can take a historical walking tour or visit the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. In San Francisco, students can take a food walking tour or visit the Golden Gate Park.

Architectural Marvels

Architecture can be fascinating. In Chicago, students can visit the Willis Tower or the Chicago Cultural Center. In Washington D.C., students can visit the Capitol Building or the National Cathedral. In New York City, students can visit the Empire State Building or the One World Trade Center.

Historical Sites

Historical sites offer a glimpse into the past. In Gettysburg, students can visit the Gettysburg National Military Park or the Eisenhower National Historic Site. In Boston, students can visit the Paul Revere House or the Old North Church. In Philadelphia, students can visit the Betsy Ross House or the Benjamin Franklin Museum.

Biking Routes

Biking can be a fun way to explore a place. In Portland, students can bike the Springwater Corridor or the Tom McCall Waterfront Park. In San Francisco, students can bike the Golden Gate Bridge or the Presidio. In Chicago, students can bike the Lakefront Trail or the 606 Trail.

Wellness Retreats

Wellness retreats offer a chance to relax and recharge. In Sedona, students can visit a spa or take a yoga class. In Ojai, California, students can visit a hot springs or take a meditation class. In Asheville, North Carolina, students can visit a wellness center or take a hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Adventure Sports

For students who love adventure, there are plenty of options. In Hawaii, students can go zip-lining or take a helicopter tour. In Colorado, students can go white-water rafting or rock climbing. In Moab, students can go mountain biking or take a hot air balloon ride.

Conclusion

Traveling can be a transformative experience for middle school students. Whether it’s exploring top attractions or off-the-beaten-path experiences, there is something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide for the ELA curriculum map covers a wide range of options for middle school students to explore.