The legacy of Theodore Roosevelt carries through modern American politics, economics, foreign policy, and society. But his proudest and most profound efforts were in the world of conservation, and in preserving the natural beauty of North America. Young historians study the incredible amount of land named as national parks, federal preserves, and reclamation projects during the Roosevelt administration that are still in place today. Next, they create an edible map of each state and its conservation projects.

Concepts

theodore roosevelt, united states presidents, presidents' day, conservation, conservationism, national parks

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Have class members take a virtual tour of national parks or federal preserves
• Create a curriculum connection between social studies and environmental science

Classroom Considerations

• Requires a blank map of the United States (including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico)
• Second part of the lesson prompts learners to make a cookie map of a selected state at home; consider allowing additional creative options if class members do not have access to ingredients or an oven

Pros

• Focuses on Roosevelt's conservation efforts
• Final project provides a hands-on look at learners' research

Cons

• None

Common Core

W.5.1.a W.6.1.a W.7.1.a W.8.1.a W.9-10.1.a W.11-12.1.a RH.6-8.1 RH.9-10.1 RH.11-12.1