Expanding Westward. Time Frame. March 3 to 4 weeks
Essential Question 1. What were the causes and effects of national growth?
Overview In this unit, students will study the presidency of Andrew Jackson, the increased conflict between the northern and southern states that marked his administration, and Jackson’s policies toward Native Americans. Students will also examine the movement of Americans to the West and the expansion of U.S. influence in Texas and California.
Learning Target Expanding west
1. I can identify the causes and effects of the first Seminole War in 1817. Gaining Florida 2. I can identify the main points of the Monroe Doctrine and why it done. 3. I can examine how the election Andrew Jackson signaled the growing power of the people. 4. I can examine why Andrew Jackson’s presidency was marked by political conflicts. 5. I can examine why President Andrew Jackson supported the Indian Removal. 6. I can examine different point of view on the on the Indian Removal Act. 7. I can analyze the how Texas gained its Independence from Mexico. 8. I can examine the ideals of Manifest destiny in expanding to the Pacific Ocean. 9. I can examine the outcome of the Mexican-American War. 10. I can examine why the American West attracted a variety of settlers. 11. I can identify why the Oregan and Santa fe Trais were important. 12. I can examine how the California gold rush changed the West.
Key Topics 1. Andrew Jackson Inauguration. 2. States Rights Debate 3. Indian Removal Act. 4. Cherokee Resistance 5. Trail of tears 6. Trails of the West 7. Manifest Destiny 8. The Texas Revolution 9. The Mexican-American War. 10. The California Gold Rush.
Culminating Activity 1. Complete the document based questions and an essay on the West ward expansion. 2. Student will complete a board game on Westward expansion 3. Students will write a letter staying their views on the Indian Removal Act. 4. Students will write an essay stating if they think Andrew Jackson was a hero or a Villain.