Presidents and American Symbols: Supplemental Guide 2 | The Legend of George Washington and the Cherry Tree 37
Note to Teacher
It is important that students understand that the legend of George
Washington and the cherry tree is a special kind of story called a legend.
Explain that it is considered a legend because it is a story from a long
time ago and that it may not be completely true because no one knows
if George Washington really chopped down his father’s cherry tree. This
legend highlights the importance of honesty and how important it is to
tell the truth.
Students who have participated in earlier Core Knowledge Language Arts
Kindergarten domains have heard some legends, including “The Story of
Jumping Mouse,” “Johnny Appleseed,” and “Bear, Gull, and Crow.”
The read-aloud for this lesson is shorter than usual. You may wish to
complement it with a short, age-appropriate video or trade book about
George Washington and the cherry tree.