Subject Area(s): Social Studies, Writing, Reading, & Mathematics
Grade Level(s): 6
Format of Library of Congress media
Best Instructional Practices
Standards
SOL: USI.8 - Students will demonstrate knowledge of westward expansion and reform in America from 1801 to 1861 by
- describing territorial expansion and how it affected the political map of the United States, with emphasis on the Louisiana Purchase, the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the acquisitions of Florida, Texas, Oregon, and California
- Identifying the geographic and economic factors that influenced the westward movement of settlers.
Length
Five: 50 minute class period
Lesson Summary
Geographic and economic factors that influenced the westward movement which include:
- Population growth in the eastern states
- Availability of cheap, fertile land
- Economic opportunity (California Gold Rush)
- Cheaper and faster transportation (rivers & canals)
- Knowledge of overland trails
- Belief in "Manifest Destiny" - The idea that expansion was for the good of the country and was the right of the country.
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