Gateway to America
Ellis Island Virtual Field Trip

The Importance of Ellis Island

As students look at pictures and experience virtually, they can imagine the noise and commotion of the crowds of people waiting to be processed. Students can see the hopeful faces of those who were about to begin their new lives in America and the anxious expressions of those who were unsure if they would be allowed to stay.

Students will learn about specific rooms found at Ellis Island, like the Baggage Room. Here, immigrants had their belongings searched and inspected for anything that could pose a threat to public health or safety. This was also the place where any items deemed unnecessary or too large were confiscated. Rooms like the Baggage Room are important for students to learn about so they can understand what immigrants went through to experience life here in America. Also, make sure students understand the value of living in America and the freedoms that citizens have here. If you teach the Bill of Rights, this is a great opportunity to review that content.

The Registry Room, where immigrants were questioned about their backgrounds and medical histories. They were also asked to provide documentation, such as passports and birth certificates. If an immigrant was deemed healthy and had all the necessary documentation, they were allowed to proceed to the next stage of the process. Make sure to highlight these ways to keep immigrants safe as well as other Americans.

Ellis Island Inspections

The medical examination was one of the most emotional parts of the Ellis Island experience. Immigrants were examined for physical and mental health issues, and those who were deemed sick were sent to the island's hospital for treatment. This was a scary and isolating experience for many immigrants, who had already endured so much on their journey to America.

Legal inspections were also a big deal at Ellis Island. During legal inspections, immigrants were questioned about their ability to support themselves and their families in America. They were also asked about their pasts, and any discrepancies in their stories could lead to denial of entry. If everything checked out, immigrants were allowed to leave the island and begin their new lives in America.

Ellis Island National Park

Today, Ellis Island is a National Park Service site and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the restored Great Hall, which was the main processing area for immigrants, and learn about the history of immigration to the United States. The island also houses the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which features exhibits on the immigrant experience and the role of Ellis Island in American history. Ellis Island remains an enduring symbol of the American Dream and a testament to the courage and determination of the millions of immigrants who passed through its doors. The museum is a beautiful tribute to Ellis Island.

As students conclude their virtual tour of Ellis Island, we are reminded of the incredible journey that millions of immigrants took to reach America. They left behind their homes and families, often enduring poverty and persecution, all in search of a better life. Ellis Island represents both the challenges and the opportunities that these immigrants faced, and it remains an important symbol of the American Dream today.

When you really think about it, these weren’t just names on a list or pictures in a museum; they were real people with big hopes and a lot of courage. Imagine stepping off a boat into a completely new place, not knowing the language, the rules, or what would happen next. That took bravery. The choices immigrants made at Ellis Island didn’t just change their own lives; they helped shape the country we live in today.

As you can see, everything you need to teach and travel to Ellis Island is included in this resource. I created this resource to be interesting for students, yet educational and simple to implement for teachers. I'm sure you will find this resource to be all you need!

Children's Books about Ellis Island

Here are 5 children’s books about Ellis Island that are great for classroom use or independent reading, each helping kids understand the history of immigration and the experience of arriving in America:

• If You Were a Kid at Ellis Island – Joana Costa Knufinke & Leo Trinidad
  A kid-friendly blend of historical facts and narrative that follows children traveling through Ellis Island, helping young readers imagine what it was like to be there. 

• Ellis Island: National Geographic Kids Readers (Level 3) – Elizabeth Carney - A nonfiction overview aimed at younger readers that explains the history and significance of Ellis Island with photos and accessible text. 

• At Ellis Island – Louise Peacock (illustrated by Walter Lyon Krudop) - focuses on personal stories and perspectives of immigrants, including historical voices woven into the narrative to bring Ellis Island’s past to life.

• Minsha’s Night on Ellis Island – Pam Berkman & Dorothy Hearst. Told from a unique perspective (through the eyes of a terrier whose family immigrates to the U.S.), this book offers a heartfelt, imaginative look at the journey to Ellis Island. 

• Ellis Island Passover – Marissa Moss - A picture book that connects cultural tradition to the immigrant experience at Ellis Island, ideal for younger students to explore community and heritage.