In this Oregon Trail and Westward Expansion web quest and short story activity, students investigate the roles and lives of pioneers traveling along the Oregon Trail. To capture their experiences, students write a short story about life on the trail, the locations pioneers visited, the people they met, and the things they experienced. The class first completes an Oregon Trail webquest assignment where students document key features, dangers, and life along the trail. Several easy links are included to help guide student research. Individually or with a partner, students gather details, learn the harsh conditions of pioneer life, and brainstorm the facts they wish to include in their story. Then, students begin to tell their story. Who are the characters? What is the setting? What is the plot? What is the climax? What things do you see / do? What is the resolution? Students fill out these sections of the organizer with details from their handouts (and details from what they have already learned about the westward expansion). Then, students put their short story together! This is a great way to integrate two curricula that both are seeking a common goal! This Manifest Destiny and Westward Expansion lesson is included as part of the Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny Unit Bundle This resource includes a paper in-class version and a 1:1 Google compatible version to be used in conjunction with Google Classroom. Just follow the included instructions for how to access the Google version, then share the resource through Google or assign via Google Classroom. This will allow students to type directly into the document! ---- Be sure to follow the History with Mr E Facebook page, and don't forget to signup for the Social Studies Newsletter to receive information on flash sales, product releases, and classroom tips! ----
