Welcome to Illinois, a cool state in the Midwest of the United States! It’s known as the Prairie State and the Land of Lincoln. Let’s explore what makes Illinois special, from its flat farmlands to its famous cities.
Illinois has two fun nicknames: the Prairie State and the Land of Lincoln.
The name “Prairie State” comes from the wide, flat lands filled with farms. These farms grow lots of corn and soybeans, thanks to the rich soil and nice weather. Farming is super important here!
“Land of Lincoln” is all about Abraham Lincoln, one of America’s most famous presidents. He lived in Springfield, Illinois, and his history is a big part of the state. You can even see “Land of Lincoln” on Illinois license plates!
Illinois is in the Midwest part of the United States. It’s surrounded by Wisconsin, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, and Iowa. You can spot it on a map, often colored in blue.
The Illinois state flag has a special seal with an eagle holding a banner. The banner says “State Sovereignty, National Union,” which means Illinois is proud to be part of the United States. The seal also shows the years 1818 (when Illinois became a state) and 1868 (when the eagle design was chosen).
The Cardinal is Illinois’s state bird. It’s bright red and sings loudly. You can often see these birds in gardens and trees all around the state.
Chicago is the biggest city in Illinois and the third largest in the U.S. It’s famous for its history, culture, and tall buildings. One cool place to visit is Cloud Gate, also called “the Bean,” a shiny sculpture that reflects the city. Chicago is also known as the Windy City because it’s often breezy there.
Springfield is the capital of Illinois and was home to Abraham Lincoln. You can learn a lot about him at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
Illinois is a state full of exciting history, beautiful farms, and lively cities. Whether you’re checking out the prairies or visiting Chicago’s busy streets, there’s always something fun to discover in Illinois!
Prairie Observation Walk: Take a walk in a nearby park or garden and observe the plants and animals. Can you find any that might be similar to those found on the prairies of Illinois? Draw a picture of what you see and write a few sentences about how these plants and animals might be similar or different from those in Illinois.
State Symbol Craft: Create your own version of the Illinois state flag using craft materials like paper, markers, and glue. Include the eagle and the banner with the words “State Sovereignty, National Union.” Discuss with a friend or family member why these symbols might be important to the people of Illinois.
Lincoln’s Legacy: Imagine you are living in Springfield during Abraham Lincoln’s time. Write a short story or draw a comic strip about a day in your life and how you might have met or learned about Abraham Lincoln. Share your story with your class or family.
