learn about the lewis and clark expedition / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will understand the main goals and key events of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, including the importance of exploration and teamwork. The student will also learn about the people and animals encountered during the journey.

Materials and Prep

  • Paper and colored pencils or crayons
  • A map of the United States (can be drawn or printed)
  • Access to a comfortable space for reading and activities
  • Knowledge about the Lewis and Clark Expedition (basic facts can be shared during the lesson)

Activities

  • Map Exploration: Using the map of the United States, the student will trace the route taken by Lewis and Clark. They can mark important locations and write down what happened at each stop.

  • Animal Encounter Drawing: The student will learn about different animals that Lewis and Clark saw on their journey. They will choose one animal to draw and write a few fun facts about it.

  • Teamwork Role Play: The student will pretend to be part of the Lewis and Clark team. They can act out different roles such as a leader, a scout, or a cook, and discuss why teamwork was important for the expedition.

Talking Points

  • "Lewis and Clark were explorers who traveled across America to find a route to the Pacific Ocean. Can you imagine traveling through unknown land?"
  • "They started their journey in 1804 and traveled for over two years! That’s a long time to be on an adventure!"
  • "They met many Native American tribes along the way. It was important for them to communicate and work together."
  • "Did you know they saw lots of animals like bears, elk, and even a prairie dog? What animal would you like to see on an adventure?"
  • "Teamwork was super important! If one person got lost, the whole team needed to work together to find them. What do you think makes a good team?"
  • "They kept a journal of their journey. Writing down what happened helped them remember important details. What would you write in your journal?"
  • "In the end, they helped people understand more about the land and its resources. Why do you think exploration is important?"