Introduction for Teachers

Designed by Allie Weber (allie_weber@apsva.us). Last updated January 25, 2006 .

This lesson was developed as part of An Adventure of the American Mind Northern Virginia Partnership (AAMNVA) , a federally funded professional development program to assist educators in using Library of Congress primary resources to support student learning.

This LibraryQuest focuses on the California Gold Rush and was designed as an introduction for students who may have little or no knowledge of this time in American history. It is meant to be used as a portion of a unit on Westward Expansion. It begins with a preview showing some of the popular nineteenth century beliefs (or hopes) about the ease of finding gold in California. It continues with an activity in which students use Library of Congress links to gather background information on the Gold Rush. In step two, students meet miners by reading their letters and diaries. These primary sources help them realize that it wasn't so easy to find gold and that there was actually a better way to make money in California than mining. The last step in the process is the creation of non-fiction books for young people. There are three types of books offered. This should allow every student to find a suitable choice and to create a new work with the information learned.

Arlington County Public Schools, Virginia

Unit Number/Title: Unit VI. Westward Expansion

Conceptual Unit Question: How did the California Gold Rush affect the United States and the lives of ordinary people?

Enduring Understanding: Westward migration was influenced by geography and economic opportunity.

Knowledge Goals: The Gold Rush was an economic opportunity that influenced western expansion.

Skill Goals: Students will read and interpret primary and secondary sources to create meaning.

Key Concepts: Many people rushed to California believing they would find great wealth mining gold. Cities in California grew as a result of Americans and immigrants coming to seek gold.

Additional information on the Gold Rush may be found in most encyclopedias and in most United States history textbooks.