Third graders describe some of the factors that brought early settlers to Ann Arbor. They read Narrative-A Trip from Utica, New York, to Ingham County, Michigan in 1838. As an added challenge, 3rd graders can use maps to track Silas...

Fourth graders describe how Michigan has changed and stayed the same over time. They explain reasons why people settled/settle in Michigan, then explain the role of geography on the settlement of Michigan.

Second graders study Fulton and his Steamboat, the "Trail of Tears," the Oregon Trail, the Transcontinental Railroad and the Pony Express in this series of lessons.

Fourth graders investigate Indiana transportation. In this transportation lesson students discover early forms of transportation such as railroads, rivers, boats, and roads. Students compare and contrast the different...

Students create historically accurate travel journals. In this Iowa history lesson plan, students research the German immigration experience as they write travel journals that feature a German family's move into an Iowa county.

Calling all junior detectives! Scholars use the tools of investigation to determine the causes and impacts of the American Civil War. Using viewing guides, videos, group research, and written resources, they discover what it takes to...

Abraham Lincoln was one of the greatest presidents ever ... right? Scholars research the accomplishments and struggles of the Lincoln presidency. They uncover facts, materials and information via video clips, primary, and secondary...

What sunk the Sultana? Scholars become investigators to uncover the facts behind the 1865 sinking just after the end of the Civil War. Through group work, videos, and primary documents, they research and analyze why 1,800 men died....

Students demonstrate appreciation of contributions of Aboriginal peoples, the French, and the British to the development of Canada and explain how supply and demand are affected by population and the availability of resources. They then...

Seventh graders study side-scan sonar and discover how it can be used to locate objects underwater. They complete a sonar simulation activity in which they create and map mystery landscapes inside shoeboxes.

Sudents examine the types of instruments that can be used for marine navigation and position-finding. They practice using an astrolabe to solve trigonometric problems.

High schoolers plot the positions of vessels given bearings in the form of landmarks. They explain how the debris field can help solve the mystery in how the ship sunk.

Pupils examine reasons why people migrated west. They describe how the geography of the U.S. changed in the 19 th century and design a PowerPoint presentation to convey factors for westward expansion.

Second graders explore U.S. history by researching the state of Kansas. In this transportation lesson, 2nd graders research the transit habits of Kansas residents in the past and how challenging it could be for them to get around....

Seventh graders study the Erie Canal and New York state. They design a three-day vacation itinerary using tourism sites, which highlight historical facts and include the modern remains of the New York Canal system.

The 1820s were a crucial period in our history. Much of the foundation of our modern industrial society was laid during this time. It was an era of optimism and prosperity, but also of social tensions and anxieties. The economy expanded...