The idea of Manifest Destiny holds many meanings. For many who moved west, it symbolizes their hopes and dreams. For many of the indigenous people who already inhabited the region, Manifest Destiny brought an end to their way of life. Railroads, trade, and waves of settlers reshaped the physical and natural environment. Manifest Destiny undoubtedly changed the United States, but how should it be remembered? This building block inquiry is designed to help students reflect on westward migration after having already learned about its key themes.
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About the inquiry
Compelling Question
How should we remember westward expansion?
Standards
Instructional Snapshot
Class begins with students brainstorming the three most important things they know about westward expansion. Guided by the teacher, students share their ideas to build a class list of facts and themes about westward expansion. Next, the teacher divides students into small groups. Each group considers the list generated by the class, and selects what they believe are the three most important aspects of Western Expansion that should be remembered and records their ideas on the graphic organizer.
The teacher then distributes a copy of Source A to each group, allowing students to examine or review the painting for a few minutes. As students carefully analyze the painting of American Progress, they look for evidence of the aspects of western expansion they believe should be remembered, and indicate if each aspect is present or missing from the painting on their graphic organizer. Finally, students craft a caption for the painting that includes how Westward Expansion should be remembered. Possible sentence starters are provided on the graphic organizer.
Source A: George A. Crofutt, “American Progress”, ca. 1873, Library of Congress
Formative Tasks
COLLABORATE: Identify three aspects of Westward Expansion that should be remembered.
DELIBERATE: Compare American Progress to the brainstormed set of aspects to determine if the aspects of westward expansion identified are represented in the painting.
PRODUCE: Craft a caption for the painting American Progress that explains how we should remember Westward Expansion.
Sources
Summative Performance Task
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Taking Informed Action
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