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 Illinois 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 Illinois History
1673: French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet claim Illinois land for France.
1763: The British take over the land after their French and Indian War victory.
1818: Illinois is the 21st state admitted into statehood on December 3.
1832: The Native Americans lose the Blackhawk War and are forced out of Illinois.
1871: The Great Chicago Fire
1973: The Sears Tower, now known as the Willis Tower, is built.
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 Illinois' 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 Illinois 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 Illinois History
1673: French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet claim Illinois land for France.
1763: The British take over the land after their French and Indian War victory.
1818: Illinois is the 21st state admitted into statehood on December 3.
1832: The Native Americans lose the Blackhawk War and are forced out of Illinois.
1871: The Great Chicago Fire
1973: The Sears Tower, now known as the Willis Tower, is built.
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 Illinois' 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 Timeline of Illinois History
How to Help Students Choose the Most Important Events for Their Illinois Timeline
Guide students in evaluating which historical events are most significant to include in their timelines. Explain how to look for events that had major impacts on Illinois’ people, culture, or development. Encourage them to ask, “Would Illinois be different today if this event hadn’t happened?” and discuss their reasoning before selecting.
Model How to Research Illinois History Effectively
Demonstrate how to use age-appropriate sources, such as library books or reputable websites, to find accurate information. Show students how to take simple notes on key facts and dates to help them organize their findings for the timeline.
Encourage Visual Creativity in Timeline Illustrations
Inspire students to draw or digitally create images that clearly represent each event. Remind them to include important details like clothing, locations, or symbols that make the events memorable and meaningful.
Facilitate Peer Review for Timeline Projects
Arrange for students to exchange timelines and give friendly, constructive feedback. Suggest they check for correct sequencing, accurate facts, and clear illustrations. This helps students reflect and improve their work before presenting.
Frequently Asked Questions about Timeline of Illinois History
What are some important events to include in an Illinois history timeline for students?
Key events for an Illinois history timeline include the 1673 French exploration by Marquette and Joliet, the 1763 British takeover, Illinois becoming the 21st state in 1818, the 1832 Blackhawk War, the 1871 Great Chicago Fire, and the construction of the Sears (Willis) Tower in 1973.
How can I help students create a timeline of Illinois history in the classroom?
Guide students to research key events, select 4–6 significant moments, write descriptions, list events in order with dates, and illustrate each event. Use templates or allow students to design their own timelines or posters for presentations.
What is the best way to teach Illinois history to 3rd to 6th graders?
Interactive activities like creating timelines or timeline posters help students engage with Illinois history. Encourage discussion about why each event is significant and use visuals to enhance understanding.
What should students consider when choosing events for their Illinois timeline?
Students should pick events that had a major impact on Illinois, are historically significant, and can be clearly explained and illustrated, such as statehood or major cultural changes.
Are there alternatives to a traditional timeline for a classroom history project?
Yes, students can create timeline posters for gallery walks or presentations, use digital templates, or combine images and text for a more interactive approach.
More Storyboard That Activities
Illinois State Guide
Testimonials
“By using the product, they were so excited and they learned so much...”–K-5 Librarian and Instructinal Technology Teacher
“I'm doing a Napoleon timeline and I'm having [students] determine whether or not Napoleon was a good guy or a bad guy or somewhere in between.”–History and Special Ed Teacher
“Students get to be creative with Storyboard That and there's so many visuals for them to pick from... It makes it really accessible for all students in the class.”–Third Grade Teacher
© 2025 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
