Fine Arts and Social Science

Introduction

South Dakota has had 30 different Governors since it became a state in 1889. Some of the Governors like George Speaker Mickelson and William John Janklow are very easy to remember. George Mickelson will always be remembered as the first South Dakota Governor to die while still in office. Governor Janklow is well known for speaking his opinion, policies and beliefs. He was also involved in a tragic automobile accident while serving in United States House of Representatives.

We have a tendency to remember events and people that leave a bold impression in our mind. I remember the governors that served during my lifetime, especially the first one I voted for when I turned eighteen. Also, I remember the governors my parents and grandparents liked and talked about.

Most South Dakotans do not realize we have had 30 governors over the last 116 years. The activities below will introduce the students in your class to some of the forgotten governors.

Activities
The following multidisciplinary activities are great. Your students will learn interesting facts, use hidden talents, create masterpieces and have fun.

Activity #1: Hall of Fame

Materials:
Internet access
Possible sites:
http://www.netstate.com/states/government/sd_formergov.htm
http://www.state.sd.us/state/capitol/capitol/tour/govpics2.htm
Library access
Newspapers
Construction paper / white drawing paper
Computer
Pencil / eraser / ruler

Process:
1. The students should choose a former South Dakota Governor.
2. The students should research the governor's political and personal history.
3. The students should draw a portrait of the governor. The portrait should be matted on construction paper. Also, a frame can be made using the construction paper. A nameplate should be made and mounted, which includes 10 interesting facts about the governor. The students should use the computer to select a fancy font for the nameplate.
4. All of the portraits should be displayed.

Activity #2: The New Mount Rushmore

Materials:
Internet access
One possible site: http://www.netstate.com/states/government/sd_formergov.htm
Library access
Newspapers
Computer
Clay
One possible site:http://www.chevroncars.com/wocc/lrn/artcl/artcl.jhtml?id=/content/Fun_and_Games/Art/a0527.xml
Tools for use with the clay (forks, craft sticks, spoons etc.)
Board or cardboard to mount sculpture
Computer / paper
Paint (optional)

Process:
1. The students should choose 4 former South Dakota Governors.
2. The students should research the governor's political and personal history.
3. The students should sculpt a model of Mount Rushmore. The presidents' faces are replaced with the governors chosen by the student. The model should be place on a decorated board. A nameplate should be made and mounted, which includes 5 interesting facts about each governor.
4. All of the models should be displayed.

Questions, comments or ideas may be sent to KidsQuest@sdpb.org