The historical roots of state and local development are not buried; they are alive in the artifacts, monuments, and buildings around us, as well as the stories that we tell. In this Inquiry, students learn about the first peoples to live in their state and region, and they investigate major events at the roots of their state’s history. They explore a variety of historical sources and the various perspectives reflected in them, learning to ask critical questions of their sources and look for limitations as well as benefits.
Each region of the United States is unique; together, they provide people with the different resources they need to survive. In this Inquiry, students explore the rich natural resources across the US, how people use them, and the ways everyone can help sustain them. Then, they consider how to take action in their community to promote sustainable use of our natural resources.