situated learning - k-12 - westward expansion

Detailed Description:

Using hypertext links for art, historical documentation, maps, political cartoons, literature, statistical information, and texts to scaffold learning, students will construct an understanding of the interrelationship and impact of governmental, geographic, and economic factors, as well as cultural factors and traditions on society, drawing parallels between the past and present to help guide thinking toward the future.

Student teams will select a challenge from the list of scenarios and design a solution demonstrating synthesis and evaluation of complex, multidisciplinary material. Oral presentations of the team “manifest destiny” plan will support a jigsaw scaffold for peers since each challenge deals with a different set of factors around which the group must plan. Students will work in teams on The Oregon Trail problemsolving simulation in order to internalize the challenge and to experience the adversities faced by the pioneers during westward expansion. Students will use the hyperlinks accessed through the Resource navigation button to examine pertinent documents and media. Guided questioning by the facilitator will be used to lead students in higher order thinking skills in order for the student to synthesize and evaluate the material.

Learning Outcomes:

The learner will be able to:

    • Identify and explain the significance of important events that led to westward expansion.

    • How did policies of the U.S. government influence westward migration?

    • Describe the contributions of important participants in the westward movement. How did these contributions affect the economic base of the country?

    • Identify factors influencing westward movement and survival. What were the motivations of the people who traveled west? What conditions did they encounter as they journeyed west?

    • How did the conditions encountered influence their decisions?

    • Articulate how various ethnic groups, including Native Americans, were affected by the opening of the West.

    • Analyze art, music and literature of the period as a reflection of the ideas and values of the people. What conflicts arose among the different cultures of people?