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 Florida 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 Florida History
1513: Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon is the first European to visit Florida.
1565: The oldest permanent settlement in the US, St. Augustine, is established.
1845: Florida becomes the 27th state. In 1861, Florida secedes from the Union and is readmitted again in 1868.
1961: NASA’s first manned spaceflight takes off from Cape Canaveral.
1971: Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom opens its doors in Orlando, Florida.
1992: Hurricane Andrew rips through the southern part of the state, causing a great deal of damage.
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 a Florida'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.
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 Florida 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 Florida History
1513: Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon is the first European to visit Florida.
1565: The oldest permanent settlement in the US, St. Augustine, is established.
1845: Florida becomes the 27th state. In 1861, Florida secedes from the Union and is readmitted again in 1868.
1961: NASA’s first manned spaceflight takes off from Cape Canaveral.
1971: Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom opens its doors in Orlando, Florida.
1992: Hurricane Andrew rips through the southern part of the state, causing a great deal of damage.
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 a Florida'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.
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 Create a Timeline of Florida History
How to Select the Most Significant Events for a History Timeline
Focus on key moments by guiding students to pick events that had a lasting impact on Florida’s development and identity. Encourage them to look for turning points, influential figures, or events that changed the course of the state’s history. This helps students practice critical thinking and ensures their timelines tell a meaningful story.
Organize events in chronological order before building the timeline
Use index cards, sticky notes, or digital slides to list each event and its date. Arrange and rearrange these until the sequence is correct. This hands-on step makes it easier for students to see the flow of history before creating their final timeline.
Incorporate student research to add depth to each event
Have students investigate beyond the textbook using books, websites, or interviews. Ask them to find one interesting fact or detail for each event, which they can include in the timeline description. This promotes engagement and helps events feel more real and relevant.
Use visuals and color coding to enhance understanding
Assign a color, symbol, or image to each type of event (e.g., exploration, statehood, disaster, innovation). This strategy helps students and viewers quickly distinguish between different kinds of events and makes the timeline more visually appealing.
Lead a timeline gallery walk for collaborative learning
Display student timelines around the room. Give students a few minutes to visit and review each one, asking them to look for unique choices or creative facts. This activity encourages peer feedback and helps students learn from each other’s research and design decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Create a Timeline of Florida History
What are some important events to include in a Florida history timeline for students?
Key events to include in a Florida history timeline are: the arrival of Ponce de Leon in 1513, the founding of St. Augustine in 1565, Florida becoming the 27th state in 1845, secession and readmission during the Civil War, NASA’s first manned spaceflight in 1961, the opening of Walt Disney World in 1971, and Hurricane Andrew in 1992.
How can I help students create an engaging Florida history timeline?
Guide students to research and select major events, use clear dates, and write detailed descriptions. Encourage them to create illustrations for each event and consider alternative formats like a timeline poster for presentations or gallery walks.
What is the best way to teach Florida history using a timeline activity?
The best approach is to combine research, sequencing, and creativity. Let students choose significant events, provide templates, and allow them to express understanding with descriptions and images. This makes the lesson interactive and memorable.
Why is St. Augustine important in Florida’s history?
St. Augustine, founded in 1565, is the oldest permanent settlement in the United States. Including it in a timeline highlights Florida’s early European history and its role in American heritage.
What alternative timeline layouts can I use for a Florida history project?
Besides a traditional horizontal timeline, students can make a timeline poster for presentations, or use digital templates with multiple cells for each event. Multiple options help meet different learning styles and project needs.
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