This is President’s day week! We are continuing our Westward Expansion unit, which involves local and state history. On Friday, local author Ken Thomasma came to classes to tell the story of Sacajawea’s critical role on the Lewis & Clark Expedition. Parent conferences are on Tuesday and Thursday next week. Students can sign up for an approximate time via their team teacher.
Monday:
No School – President’s Day
Tuesday:
No school for students. Teachers are in meetings today.
Wednesday:
1. After a quick review of Friday’s Ken Thomasma presentation, students will finish their Lewis & Clark expedition presentations. Student groups will guide the class through two sections of the expedition using maps and primary journal entries intended for President Jefferson.
2. Students will finish their field observations, which include a sketch and description of a plant, animal or landform noted by Lewis or Clark along the way.
HW: Due Friday at the start of class – California Geography and Demographic Assignment - Start
Thursday:
The California Gold Rush – Rumors of gold strikes coupled with the end of the Mexican American War turned this roughly populated Mexican territory into the 31st State in under two years. Student groups will participate in an online game as one of five diverse characters competing to strike it rich. Students will learn what kinds of hard decisions and tough odds most ‘49ers faced in California.
Friday:
The Homestead Act of 1862 has been called the most influential government program in US History. Students will read the words of the original homesteaders, look at the original act, signed by President Lincoln and analyze illuminating homesteader images. We will revisit Homestead Act information when we turn to local history.
HW Due today – California Geography and Demographics