Thursday, August 21, 2025

American History Topic 1 Introduction: The Early Americas and European Exploration

Photo by Mr. C, Quintana Roo, Mexico
 
Essential Question: How much does geography affect people's lives?

Engage:

  • Austin Celebrates His Heritage video (5:05) 

Explore:

Evaluate:

  • Active Journal pages 2-3
  • Lesson Check 1-5
  • Whole class questions: 
  1. Why do we study the Americas before Columbus' arrival? 
  2. Why is it important to share our cultural heritage with others? 

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

American History Kennewick Man

Today we will explore the story of Kennewick Man. As you explore the topic keep in mind the following questions:

  • How did this story evolve over time?
  • What eventually happened to Kennewick Man?
  • What should have been done with the remains?
  • What would you want to have done with the remains if they were your ancestor?
  • According to the map below, what indigenous people group use to live here in southwest Missouri? 
  • What should you do if you find the remains of an indigenous person?

Essential Question: Should scientists be allowed to study the remains of indigenous peoples?

Engage: What would you think if a scientist dug up the remains of an ancestor to study?


  • On occasion, archaeologists have dug up the remains of ancient Native Americans.
  • Should scientists be allowed to study these remains?
  • Native Americans feel such remains should be immediately reburied according to Native
        American customs.
  • Scientists worry that if reburied, the remains will deteriorate and lose their value
        for present and future scientific study.

Explore: 

World Geography Topic 1 Lesson 1 Geography Basics

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/35/The_Jordan_River_loops%2C_aerial_view_1938.jpg 

Essential Question: How much does geography affect people's lives?

 Engage:

  • Interactive Journal p. 13 Practice Vocabulary

Explore:

Evaluate:

  • Define 8 vocabulary words on page 9
  • Lesson Check questions 1-5 on page 16
  • Lesson 1 Quiz

American History: Footsoldier of Birmingham

 



Look at the picture above.  What are we seeing happen here? Then we will listen to the podcast by Malcolm Gladwell. Is what we believe to have happened what actually happened?

After the lesson you will need to answer these questions:
  1. Can the art we create be used to influence belief systems? 
  2. As we examine the story as well as look at the statue and the picture from which the statue comes, what can we learn about ourselves and how we react based upon what we have learned?
  3. How will this change your view of historical artifacts as we move forward?

Essential Question: Does the Foot Soldier of Birmingham statue have historical value?

 Engage:

Explore:

Explain: 

  • Is the statue a reliable representation?
  • The statue is a misrepresentation of the facts. Does this matter as an art piece? 

Evaluate:

Expectations: 

  • During class instruction/work time you will follow all directions.
  • Stay seated and do not talk while listening to the podcast.
  • While working you may talk quietly and go to supply table for supplies.
  • The Foot Soldier of Birmingham Worksheet will be due Tuesday, August 29. You will receive half credit after that date.
  • When finished place the Foot Soldier of Birminghamt Worksheet in the tray.