19th Century Authors Lesson Plans

Sixth graders examine 19th century inventions that prompted Westward Expansion. In this Westward Expansion lesson, 6th graders analyze primary sources available from the Library of Congress that feature 19th century inventions.  Analysis of best practices and technology integration articles are included to further support the teacher of this lesson.

Learners research the differences between traveling on a stagecoach and wagon trail in the 19th century. In this historical lesson, students discover the uses of stagecoaches and wagon trails in the 19th century, then decide which one they would have preferred to ride.

Young scholars interpret historical evidence presented in primary and secondary resources. In this immigration instructional activity, students research immigration to the United States in the latter half of the 19th century and discuss the motivation for it. Young scholars also discuss the effect of immigration on the Industrial Revolution.

Young scholars read fictional short stories and novel excerpts about the American frontier. They create charts with major characteristics of the real-life American people who went west during the 19th century and specifics from the works of fiction they've chosen that either confirm or negate those characteristics. Essays clarify whether the author's portrayals of characters do or do not correspond with research characteristics.

Students are introduced to women authors during the 19th century. In groups, they read about the criticism they faced during this time period by the public and literary community. Using the internet, they research one author to discover her characteristics and connections among other writers.

Students analyze 19th century cartoons on segregation. In this primary source lesson students examine primary source documents and identify the elements of a cartoon then create their own based on The Outsiders by SE Hinton.

Students study 19th century dance. In this arts lesson, students explore primary sources available from the Library of Congress that feature a variety of dances popular in the 19th century. 

Students explore how opportunities for civic participation expanded during the first half of the 19th century including nominating conventions, expansion of the franchise and active campaigning. They use research materials, a graphic organizer, short answer responses and cooperative learning.

Learners compare and contrast the elements used in the 19th century British novel and those novels in American society today. In groups, they brainstorm what it might have been like to be a teenager growing up in England during the 19th century and compare it with the information they gather from the novel itself.

Students read texts and explore themes for the lives of women in 19th century. In this 19th century women's lives lesson, students analyze the lives of women during the period by reading various texts and complete the worksheets for the topic.