Activity Overview
Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Arizona and create a timeline of events. Students must think about what makes an event truly worthy of being included in the timeline and be able to include detail in their timeline.
For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.
Examples of Important Events in Arizona History
1863: President Lincoln signs the Organic Act, creating the Arizona Territory, which marks the beginning of organized government in the region.
1912: Arizona is admitted to the Union as the 48th state.
1919: The Grand Canyon is officially established as a national park under President Wilson.
1934: Construction of the Hoover Dam is completed, an enormous feat that provides hydroelectric power and facilitated irrigation.
1947: Arizona becomes a popular place for Major League Baseball teams to have their spring training, beginning with the Cleveland Indians.
1963: Arizona plays an important role in space exploration as astronauts train at places like Meteor Crater, whose terrain is quite like the surface of the moon.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a 4-6 cell timeline of important events in Arizona’s history.
Student Instructions
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Use the provided blank template or add cells to your own template as needed.
- Write the state’s name in the top heading.
- In the title box, list out each of the events in sequential order and add correct dates.
- Describe the events in the description boxes.
- Create an image in each cell that depicts the events, using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save often!
Requirements: At least 4 events, correct dates, descriptions, and appropriate illustrations for each event.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events and Dates | The events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. The dates provided are correct. | Most of the events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. Most of the dates provided are correct. | Some of the events chosen for the timeline are significant. There may be missing events, or events that are irrelevant. Too many dates may be incorrect. |
| Explanations/Descriptions | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are accurate and provide insight into the significance of the events. | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are mostly accurate and attempt to provide insight into the significance of the events. | There are several glaring inaccuracies in the explanations or descriptions of the events. There may be little or no insight int the significance of the events, or the information provided may be too limited or missing. |
| English Conventions | There are 0-2 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 3-4 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 5 or more mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. |
Activity Overview
Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Arizona and create a timeline of events. Students must think about what makes an event truly worthy of being included in the timeline and be able to include detail in their timeline.
For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.
Examples of Important Events in Arizona History
1863: President Lincoln signs the Organic Act, creating the Arizona Territory, which marks the beginning of organized government in the region.
1912: Arizona is admitted to the Union as the 48th state.
1919: The Grand Canyon is officially established as a national park under President Wilson.
1934: Construction of the Hoover Dam is completed, an enormous feat that provides hydroelectric power and facilitated irrigation.
1947: Arizona becomes a popular place for Major League Baseball teams to have their spring training, beginning with the Cleveland Indians.
1963: Arizona plays an important role in space exploration as astronauts train at places like Meteor Crater, whose terrain is quite like the surface of the moon.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a 4-6 cell timeline of important events in Arizona’s history.
Student Instructions
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Use the provided blank template or add cells to your own template as needed.
- Write the state’s name in the top heading.
- In the title box, list out each of the events in sequential order and add correct dates.
- Describe the events in the description boxes.
- Create an image in each cell that depicts the events, using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save often!
Requirements: At least 4 events, correct dates, descriptions, and appropriate illustrations for each event.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events and Dates | The events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. The dates provided are correct. | Most of the events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. Most of the dates provided are correct. | Some of the events chosen for the timeline are significant. There may be missing events, or events that are irrelevant. Too many dates may be incorrect. |
| Explanations/Descriptions | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are accurate and provide insight into the significance of the events. | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are mostly accurate and attempt to provide insight into the significance of the events. | There are several glaring inaccuracies in the explanations or descriptions of the events. There may be little or no insight int the significance of the events, or the information provided may be too limited or missing. |
| English Conventions | There are 0-2 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 3-4 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 5 or more mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. |
How Tos about Arizona Timeline
Organize research materials for student timelines
Gather a variety of age-appropriate books, articles, and digital resources about Arizona history. Organizing these materials in one location helps students easily access reliable information for their timelines.
Guide students in selecting significant historical events
Encourage students to choose events that had a major impact on Arizona's development. Discuss with your class what makes an event important—such as changes in government, major discoveries, or cultural milestones—to help them make thoughtful selections.
Model how to write concise event descriptions
Demonstrate how to summarize each event in 1–2 sentences using clear, student-friendly language. This helps ensure students include essential details without overloading their timelines with information.
Coach students on creating meaningful timeline visuals
Show examples of simple images or symbols that represent each event. Prompt students to use scenes, characters, or objects that capture the essence of the historical moment, making their timelines more engaging and memorable.
Facilitate a gallery walk to showcase student timelines
Arrange student timelines around the classroom and invite students to walk through and view each other's work. Encouraging peer feedback fosters a sense of pride and helps students learn from one another's research and creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Arizona Timeline
What are some important events to include in an Arizona history timeline for students?
Key events for an Arizona history timeline include the creation of the Arizona Territory in 1863, statehood in 1912, the Grand Canyon's designation as a national park in 1919, completion of the Hoover Dam in 1934, the start of Major League Baseball spring training in 1947, and astronaut training at Meteor Crater in 1963.
How do I create a simple Arizona timeline activity for elementary students?
To create a simple Arizona timeline activity, have students choose 4–6 major events, add correct dates, write brief descriptions, and draw or select images for each event. Use templates or posters for a visual and interactive experience.
What makes an event significant enough to add to a state history timeline?
Significant events are those that had a lasting impact on the state's government, culture, or development. Encourage students to consider events that changed Arizona's identity, such as becoming a state or major public projects like the Hoover Dam.
Can students work in pairs on the Arizona timeline project?
Yes, the Arizona timeline project can be completed individually or with a partner. Collaborative work can help students discuss and decide which events are most important to include.
What are creative alternatives to a traditional timeline layout for Arizona history?
Creative alternatives include making a timeline poster for presentations or gallery walks. Students can use digital templates, storyboards, or even illustrated books to showcase Arizona's historical milestones.
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