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As teachers, we know that classroom discussions often touch on the major events of the year. Whether it’s sparking curiosity, creating activities, or encouraging critical thinking, these moments offer opportunities to connect learning with the real world. A lot happened in 2024, and it’s the perfect time to reflect on these milestones with your students.
At ThinkFives, we’ve curated the top 5 moments in movies, streaming, politics, sports, and events to help you engage your class and explore how these shaped the world.
Top Movies of 2024
2024 brought a mix of sequels and groundbreaking storytelling to the big screen. These films captivated audiences and broke box office records.
- Inside Out 2: Pixar’s emotional sequel grossed $1.69 billion globally, becoming the year’s top-grossing film.
- Deadpool & Wolverine: This Marvel collaboration brought fans to theaters, earning $1.34 billion worldwide.
- Despicable Me 4: The latest installment in the beloved animated franchise.
- Dune: Part Two: The continuation of the sci-fi epic attracted audiences worldwide.
- Moana 2: Disney’s sequel captured hearts and box office success.
Top Streaming Shows of 2024
Streaming platforms continued to dominate entertainment, offering a mix of drama, action, and reality TV.
- Shōgun: A historical epic became the most-streamed show of the year.
- The Bear: A culinary drama that kept viewers hooked.
- Prison Break: After being added to Netflix, it surged to the top of streaming charts.
- Squid Game Season 2: The much-anticipated sequel attracted millions of viewers.
- Love Island USA Season 6: A reality TV phenomenon on Peacock, breaking streaming records.
Top Sports Accomplishments of 2024
Sports fans had plenty to cheer about in 2024, with historic performances and inspirational comebacks.
- Simone Biles dominated the Paris Olympics, securing multiple gold medals in her return.
- Shohei Ohtani redefined baseball with an unprecedented season of 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases.
- The U.S. Women’s National Team won Olympic gold in soccer under coach Emma Hayes.
- Mark Cavendish broke the Tour de France stage win record.
- Caitlin Clark made history in both NCAA basketball and the WNBA.
Top Political Events of 2024
While politics often dominate headlines, 2024 was a year of historic leadership changes and geopolitical shifts.
- Donald Trump was re-elected as the 46th President of the United States.
- Claudia Sheinbaum became Mexico’s first female president.
- Sweden officially joined NATO, reshaping European security dynamics.
- Global elections brought significant shifts, with populist movements gaining traction.
- Germany faced political upheaval with the collapse of its coalition government.
Top Non-Political Events of 2024
Beyond politics, the year was shaped by technological advancements, climate challenges, and cultural milestones.
- The rapid integration of AI tools like ChatGPT into everyday life.
- Climate-induced disasters, such as Valencia’s devastating flash flood.
- Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind a legacy of humanitarian work.
- On January 1, 2024, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck along the west coast of Japan, causing a tsunami wave.
- Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras’ tour became a cultural phenomenon, grossing $2.2 billion globally.
Which of these lists resonates most with your class? Share your thoughts or activities inspired by these highlights below!