New quarters make learning fun

By now, millions have seen the quarters associated with the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program. People everywhere (especially kids) anxiously await each quarter’s arrival to see the new design. In the process, they learn more about the state’s capital, history, geography and culture.

These quarters, each minted for only about 10 weeks, are also great educational tools. Teachers throughout the country are teaming with the U.S. Mint to adapt the popular 50 State Quarters Program to the classroom.

To expand the program’s educational value, the U.S. Mint has developed lesson plans for school children in grades K-6. Free lesson plans, created by teachers for teachers, are being offered nationwide.

These lesson plans use the quarters to teach required curriculum such as math, history, geography and economics. The coins not only enhance learning geography, but also make learning addition, multiplication and basic problem solving fun and interactive.

Launched in 1999, the 50 State Quarters Program runs through 2008. Any school in the country can enjoy the free 50 State Quarters Program lesson plans.

To request free lesson plans, visit the U.S. Mint Website at http://www.USMINT.gov/50states/education to download the lesson plans or write to: U.S Mint 50 State Quarters’ Program, P.O. Box 1268, Alexandria, VA 22313. Also, call (800) 872-6468.