Often, a symbol takes on a life of its own. And even non-readers react to them. One only has to witness how quickly small children react to symbols that represent things they like – "golden arches," M&M's or a local toy or ice cream store's emblem. Tourist areas, cities, states and nations often use symbols to publicize themselves for economic reasons. And all political units have symbols, for example flags, to identify themselves to others. Athletic teams are good examples of the use of symbols and nicknames to set themselves apart form their opponents. Students working with symbols is a good way for them to express their feelings and knowledge about other places. Have the class discuss some of the symbols associated with our nation, e.g., the Statue of Liberty, the Liberty Bell, the Capitol, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the bald eagle, the White House or the flag. Then have them think about their own state, region or city to see if they can identify symbols that are used to represent these places. Now have students, individually or in teams, develop symbols that represent each of the 50 states. It might be interesting to have them also list a food they associate with each state. Note: This is a great time to engage parents or others at home in providing suggestions. Have them work in teams and do the same for each nation of Latin American, Asia, Africa or Europe. What symbol best represents that nation? What food? What color(s)? And in every case, most important, why?