17th Century Exploration Lesson Plans

Students explore the transformations that the institution of slavery underwent in the English Colonies. They study the impact of slavery on black families.

Learners read The Crucible to explore causes and effects of Salem Witch Trials, analyze concept of witch hunt, investigate other witch hunts of historical significance, and write paper analyzing a political campaign that could be labeled a witch hunt.

Students read and analyze primary source documents about Jamestown or Fort James. In this Jamestown and primary source document lesson, students read and analyze descriptions of Fort James from primary sources. They access a web site to explore more information and complete an associated worksheet.

Students explore static electricity using the Van de Graaff generator. In this physics lesson, students construct their own Van de Graaff using simple materials. They explain how charges accumulate on this device.

Students create lines and shapes with a compass and a straight edge. For this geometry lesson, students investigate square roots, irrational numbers and spirals. They explore nature to see the shapes representing mathematics and geometric relationship.

Students explore oxygen and its physical and chemical propeties.  In this investigative lesson students complete several experiments using oxygen.

Students explore the concept of crossing cultures through reading the stories "Help! My Father is Coming!" and "The Visit to Vijay's." In this culture lesson, students predict what will happen next in the stories. Students discuss the idea that we take many journeys in our lives, and that these journeys can shape who we are. 

Second graders examine colonial music. In this historical perspectives lesson, 2nd graders explore primary sources available from the Library of Congress that feature colonial music. Students create skits featuring the music. Analysis of best practices and technology integration articles are included to further support the teacher of this lesson.

Sixth graders explore the Renaissance. In this world history lesson plan, 6th graders view a PowerPoint presentation about the historical era and then discuss the changes in art, religion, science, and culture of the time period. The PowerPoint presentation is not included.

Students explore lines and texture in a still-life painting. In this visual arts lesson plan, students study William Merrit Chase's "Still Life With Fish" and discuss the lines in the painting. Students choose a line to repeat in their own oil pastel painting.