Summary: This activity can be used to introduce a unit on westward expansion or as an end-of-unit review. Students will assess the cause and effect of, and possible reasons for, westward expansion.
Overarching questions addressed:
- ECONOMICS: How has technology (e.g., ships, canals, railroads, newspapers, telegraphs, radio, television, the internet and social media) spread ideas and influenced public opinion, the economy and/or the government? Did the changes strengthen or weaken democratic institutions?
- ECONOMICS: What is the proper role of government in the economy? (Especially with regard to economic crises, national defense/security, health and safety of the people, and economic development and practices.)
NJ Student Learning Standards for Social Studies:
- 6.1.12.EconEM.5.a: Assess the impact of governmental efforts to regulate industrial and financial systems in order to provide economic stability
- 6.1.12.GeoPP.5.a: Explain how the Homestead Act, the availability of land and natural resources, and the development of transcontinental railroads and waterways promoted the growth of a nationwide economy and the movement of populations
- 6.1.12.HistoryCC.5.a: Evaluate how events led to the creation of labor and agricultural organizations and determine the impact of those organizations on workers’ rights, the economy, and politics across time periods
Link to lesson: Reasons for Westward Expansion | DocsTeach (To gain full access, DocsTeach requires that you sign in (for free). Thereafter, teachers may access and download all documents and interactive lessons.)