THEMATIC ESSAY
This thematic essay adheres to New York State Learning Standard 5 – Civics, Citizenship, and Government, Intermediate Level, Key Idea #2. Additionally, this lesson plan corresponds with the National Social Studies Curriculum Standards thematic strand of power, authority, and governance.
This thematic essay is designed as an in class assignment to assess student learning when your study of the American West is complete. Teachers should display American West images in class for students to reference during their writing. Possible answers should include; California gold rush, transportation improvements, discovery of rich farmlands, Dawes Act, assimilation, Land Grant act, etc.
DIRECTIONS
Utilizing the American West images as reference and your knowledge of United States history complete the following task.
THEME
CONFLICT- During the 1800s, white settlers and immigrants saw the West as an opportunity for economic gain and the chance to own property. Native Americans did not believe in the concept of private property.
TASK
Identify three reasons why conflict arose in the Western United States during the late 1800s. Using specific examples, discuss how the United States government attempted to resolve these conflicts. Evaluate whether these attempts were successful.
GUIDELINES