Social Studies
Carolyn Koeller and Kate Peterson
Carolyn Koeller and Kate Peterson
Brief Description:
During this unit, students will learn about the successes, trials and tribulations that came along with the development of the United States and Westward Expansion. Students will identify ways in which the U.S. changed to reflect its new identity as a nation.
Enduring Understandings
Students will understand that…
The young United States was affected by the early government decisions and economic changes.
Acquiring/owning/maintaining land was essential to the development of the United States.
The relationships the United States had with other world powers helped shape the U.S. today.
Government decisions impact individuals, communities, groups of people, and the environment.
Students will know:
The impact of the Louisiana Purchase, War of 1812, and Industrialization.
Thousands of adventurers and pioneers followed trails to the west to settle the land and make their fortunes.
Conflicts between settlers and the government of Mexico led Texas to revolt and win independence from Mexico.
The discovery of Gold in California led to an increase in population and statehood.
During Jackson’s presidency Native Americans were forced to move west of the Mississippi River.
Geography/landforms/weather were obstacles for westward expansion.
SOFS
SS. INQ 3: Students will develop a debatable and defensible claim based upon the analysis of sources, supporting it with evidence from multiple reliable sources representing a range of media.
SS. INQ 2: Students will evaluate a variety of primary and secondary sources to interpret the historical context, intended audience, purpose, or author’s point of view.
SS. HIS 1: Students will use multiple perspectives to analyze and explain the causes and effects of issues or events within and across time periods, events or cultures.
Westward Expansion Unit Test (Friday 4/3)