Westward Expansion, a defining chapter in American history, was the 19th-century movement of settlers, entrepreneurs, and immigrants across the North American continent. Westward Expansion was a complex and transformative era that reshaped the United States geographically, economically, and socially. While it brought economic growth and the realization of national ambitions, it also left a legacy of profound injustice and conflict that continues to influence the American narrative today.
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About the inquiry
Compelling Question
How did westward expansion contribute to American Identity?
Standards
D2.Geo.4.6-8. Explain how cultural patterns and economic decisions influence environments and the daily lives of people in both nearby and distant places.
D2.Geo.7.6-8. Explain how changes in transportation and communication technology influence the spatial connections among human settlements and affect the diffusion of ideas and cultural practices.
Instructional Snapshot
Class begins with students analyzing the featured source, recording what they notice and wonder on the graphic organizer. After students share their observations and questions, explain briefly the idea of Manifest Destiny. Students then work with a partner to label the different groups and objects with adjectives that describe the tone or emotion embodied in how they are represented in the image. For example, students might label the pioneers as “hopeful” or “brave.” Invite each group to share their adjectives. Use prompts to guide the discussion, such as:
- What emotions does the painting evoke?
- What seems important to the people depicted?
- What ideas or achievements are being celebrated or glorified?
Using the adjectives as a reference point, students create a new title for the painting. In doing so, students explore the compelling question “How did westward expansion contribute to American identity?”
Formative Tasks
PRODUCE: Notice and wonder about the image “American Progress” using the graphic organizer.
COLLABORATE: Label the parts of the image with adjectives that describe the tone of how the figures were represented.
DELIBERATE: Use the list of adjectives to give the painting a new title.
Sources
Source A: George A. Crofutt, “American progress”, c1873, Library of Congress
Summative Performance Task
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Taking Informed Action
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