March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the incredible contributions of women throughout history. It’s also an opportunity to encourage thinking about the value these women have brought to our world and the impact they’ve made through discussions about equality, perseverance, and leadership. By highlighting these remarkable women, we give our students the chance to celebrate important women in history through lessons that also inspire our students to dream big and strive for equality. Here are my favorite Women’s History Month activities for upper elementary.

Women’s History Month Books

This collection of picture books features women who embody courage, perseverance, and empowerment. Each title is perfect for sparking meaningful conversations and engaging Women’s History Month activities. The stories introduce students to trailblazers, advocates, and role models who have made a lasting impact on the world. Whether you’re looking to teach lessons on leadership, resilience, or the power of using one’s voice, these titles offer a unique opportunity to inspire and empower the next generation. Browse the full collection in my Amazon affiliate storefront to discover the perfect titles for your class.

Courage in Her Cleats: The Story of Soccer Star Abby Wambach is an inspiring picture book that tells the story of Abby Wambach, one of the most celebrated soccer players of all time. Through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, this book captures Abby’s journey of courage, perseverance, and teamwork as she struggles to overcome obstacles on and off the field. Her story offers a powerful example of determination and sportsmanship, making it a perfect fit for Women’s History Month discussions. This story not only celebrates sports but also champions the values of grit and leadership that can resonate far beyond the soccer field. 

You can use this book to spark conversations about role models and empowering figures in sports, encouraging students to reflect on how persistence and a strong spirit can help them reach their own goals. After reading, consider pairing it with classroom activities like goal-setting exercises or discussions about what it means to be a team player. 

Stacey’s Extraordinary Words (The Stacey Stories) is a heartfelt picture book that celebrates the beauty and power of words through the story of a young girl named Stacey who discovers her love for language. Written by Stacey Abrams, a renowned author and advocate, this book highlights themes of self-expression, confidence, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. Through vivid illustrations and a moving narrative, it encourages children to explore their own voices and the profound impact of words. Stacey’s story is an empowering reminder for young learners that their words can make a difference. 

This book is a wonderful resource for Women’s History Month because it offers opportunities to discuss the value of communication and the courage to use words for positive change. It’s a perfect starting point for lessons on vocabulary building, writing with intention, or celebrating inspiring women in literature and beyond. After reading, consider activities like creating word walls of empowering terms or writing letters that reflect how students can uplift others with their words. 

Rescue & Jessica: A Life-Changing Friendship is a touching picture book based on a true story that explores the bond between a young girl and her service dog. Written with warmth and illustrated beautifully, the book shares how Jessica adapts to life after a significant change and how Rescue, her devoted dog, helps her regain confidence and independence. It shines a spotlight on themes of friendship, resilience, and the profound ways we can support one another through life’s challenges. Jessica’s story, along with Rescue’s unwavering loyalty, provides a heartwarming lesson about the strength found in connection and courage. 

You can use this book to foster discussions about empathy, perseverance, and the importance of teamwork. It’s the perfect way to introduce young students to inspiring figures who face and triumph over adversity. Consider pairing this book with activities like writing thank-you letters to helpers in students’ lives or creating stories about overcoming their own challenges. 

Malala’s Magic Pencil is an inspiring picture book that tells the story of Malala Yousafzai, a young girl who dreams of using a magic pencil to make the world a better place. Through heartfelt storytelling and stunning illustrations, the book traces Malala’s real-life journey as she courageously stands up for the right to education, even in the face of adversity. It beautifully captures themes of courage, advocacy, and the belief in creating change through determination and action. Malala’s story is a powerful reminder for young readers that their voices matter and can inspire real change. 

You can use this book during Women’s History Month to spark meaningful conversations about the value of education and the power of standing up for what you believe in. It’s a great way to introduce students to an inspiring figure who has made a lasting impact on the world, encouraging them to think about how they can make a difference in their own communities. After reading, you might consider activities like creating “change posters” where students draw or write about a change they’d like to see in the world, just as Malala advocated for education.

A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer! is an uplifting picture book that celebrates the incredible life and legacy of Rita Moreno, an award-winning performer who shattered barriers in the entertainment world. Through engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations, young readers learn about Rita’s early struggles, her unwavering determination, and her rise to stardom, all while staying true to herself. The book beautifully explores themes of perseverance, talent, and the importance of diversity and representation in the arts. Rita’s story is both empowering and heartfelt, offering a powerful reminder that passion and resilience can change the world. 

You can incorporate this book during Women’s History Month to inspire discussions about breaking barriers and the power of following one’s dreams. It also explores cultural representation and highlights trailblazers who have paved the way for others. After reading, students might engage in activities like creating a collage of their own talents and aspirations or researching influential figures in the arts and presenting their contributions to the class. 

The Bug Girl: A True Story is an inspiring picture book that shares the real-life story of Sophia Spencer, a young girl with a deep love for insects. Despite facing teasing and challenges, Sophia’s passion for science and determination to stay true to herself led her to become a role model for others. Through engaging text and charming illustrations, this book highlights themes of curiosity, resilience, and the importance of pursuing what you love. Sophia’s story is a reminder for young readers that staying true to who you are can make all the difference in the world. 

You can use this book to spark conversations about following one’s passions and breaking down stereotypes in science. It’s a great way to introduce students to the idea that everyone’s unique interests have value and can lead to powerful impacts. After reading, students might write about or present their own favorite interests, brainstorm ways to support peers with unique hobbies, or explore the world of insects through hands-on science activities. 

Dinosaur Lady: The Daring Discoveries of Mary Anning, the First Paleontologist is a picture book that introduces young readers to Mary Anning, a trailblazing scientist who made incredible contributions to the field of paleontology. Through captivating storytelling and vivid illustrations, the book explores Mary’s curiosity, groundbreaking fossil discoveries, and her persistence in a time when women were often excluded from the sciences. Mary’s story shows students that curiosity and determination can lead to world-changing discoveries while encouraging them to dream big in their own pursuits. 

Perfect for Women’s History Month, this book highlights the importance of perseverance, scientific discovery, and breaking gender barriers. It’s a great way to bring historical context to discussions about science and to celebrate the achievements of women in STEM fields. You could pair this book with classroom activities such as creating fossil art, exploring science careers, or spotlighting other historical women who made significant impacts in science. 

The Tree Lady: The True Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever is a captivating picture book that tells the inspiring story of Katherine Olivia Sessions, a pioneer in environmental conservation who transformed San Diego’s landscape by championing the planting of trees. Through compelling text and beautiful illustrations, young readers learn about her love for nature, her determination to make a difference, and the lasting impact of her work on her community and beyond. Katherine’s story is a vibrant reminder for students that one person’s passion and perseverance can inspire generations. 

You can use this book during Women’s History Month to spark meaningful discussions about environmental stewardship, women who have made a historical impact, and how individual actions can create significant change. This book is ideal for activities such as exploring local environmental initiatives, brainstorming ways to care for nature, or researching other influential women who shaped their communities. 

Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist dives into the remarkable life of Eugenie Clark, a pioneering marine biologist who shattered stereotypes and dedicated her life to studying sharks and promoting marine conservation. With engaging storytelling and stunning illustrations, readers will discover Eugenie’s unwavering passion, groundbreaking research, and her determination to follow her dreams despite societal challenges. Eugenie’s story serves as a powerful reminder that pursuing what you love can lead to extraordinary achievements while leaving a positive mark on the world.

This book is an excellent choice for Women’s History Month, providing opportunities to discuss the contributions of women in science, the importance of environmental stewardship, and the courage it takes to challenge stereotypes. Students can be encouraged to explore the world of marine life, write about their own dreams for the future, or research other inspiring women in STEM fields. 

Upper Elementary Women’s History Month Lesson

You can pair the picture books above with Six Thinking Hats, an amazing collaborative discussion and thinking strategy that I have been working on with my students for the past three years, to create even more meaningful Women’s History month activities.

You can create Six Thinking Hats prompt cards like mine below. Then have pairs or triads of students choose a book featuring an impactful female. Place a variety of different colored sticky notes correlating to each of the Six Thinking Hats inside each book. 

On some pages, I just left the sticky note, prompting them to evaluate the situation through that color’s perspective. On other pages, I wrote brief prompts relating to the pages and the hat color. This challenged students to stop and think critically about the book and view it from many different perspectives. I was blown away by how insightful they were!

When students finished their book and prompts, they chose the three sticky notes they felt best described their person and placed them on the chart to share.

Do you have your own Women’s History Month activities and ideas to share? Join us in our FREE upper elementary Facebook group here. We’re always excited to see inside your classrooms!