Railways are an integral part of the history of California. Using a timeline format, class members connect major historical events to the rise of the railroads and their impact on the state. Activities include a mix of independent and collaborate work. 

Concepts

the transcontinental railroad, california, railroads, california history, american history

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

social studies

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Ask pupils to research historical events and connections to the railroads
• Put the research into a whole-class timeline

Classroom Considerations

• Learners will need access to research materials, such as the internet

Pros

• Lesson plan can be adapted to a variety of geographical regions or states
• Activities allow for activity and synthesis

Cons

• Most research links do not work
• Lesson plan features a large ad from Amtrak

Common Core

RI.4.1 RI.4.3 RI.4.4 RI.4.5 RI.4.9 RI.4.10