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 Indiana 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 Indiana History
1679: French explorer, Robert de La Salle, arrives in Indiana.
1702: The first trading post to trade furs was established.
1754: The start of the French and Indian War. The Native Americans ally with the French, but lose the war in 1763 to the British.
1816: Indiana becomes the 19th state.
1911: The first Indianapolis 500 auto race takes place.
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 timeline of 4-6 important events in Indiana'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 Indiana 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 Indiana History
1679: French explorer, Robert de La Salle, arrives in Indiana.
1702: The first trading post to trade furs was established.
1754: The start of the French and Indian War. The Native Americans ally with the French, but lose the war in 1763 to the British.
1816: Indiana becomes the 19th state.
1911: The first Indianapolis 500 auto race takes place.
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 timeline of 4-6 important events in Indiana'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 History of Indiana
Plan an Engaging Indiana History Scavenger Hunt
Design a scavenger hunt where students find clues about key Indiana history events posted around your classroom or school. This interactive approach helps students learn facts while staying active and engaged.
Gather and Prepare Indiana History Clues
Write short clues or questions related to important Indiana events you want students to discover. Hide them in envelopes, boxes, or behind objects to create a sense of adventure and mystery.
Assign Student Teams and Explain the Rules
Split students into small teams and clearly outline how they’ll search for clues, record answers, and demonstrate teamwork. Set expectations for respectful behavior and fair play throughout the activity.
Start the Hunt and Monitor Progress
Begin the scavenger hunt and circulate to offer hints, keep students on track, and ensure everyone participates. This fosters collaboration and keeps students focused on learning objectives.
Review Answers and Celebrate Learning
Gather everyone at the end to discuss the answers and highlight interesting facts students discovered. Celebrate their success with small rewards or a class reflection on Indiana’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions about History of Indiana
How can I create a simple timeline of Indiana's history for elementary students?
To create a simple Indiana history timeline for elementary students, select 4-6 key events (like statehood or major explorations), list them in order with dates, and add brief descriptions and illustrations for each. Using a template or poster format helps make the timeline visual and easy to understand.
What are the most important events to include in an Indiana state history timeline?
Key events for an Indiana state history timeline often include Robert de La Salle's arrival (1679), the first trading post (1702), the French and Indian War (1754-1763), Indiana's statehood (1816), and the first Indianapolis 500 (1911). Choose events that highlight major changes or milestones in the state's development.
What is a fun way to present Indiana history besides a standard timeline?
A fun alternative to a traditional timeline is having students make a timeline poster for presentations or gallery walks. Students can use art, images, and creative layouts to showcase Indiana's history in a more engaging format.
How do I help students decide which events are significant enough for their Indiana timeline?
Encourage students to select events that had a lasting impact on Indiana, brought major change, or represent important milestones. Discuss why each event matters and how it shaped the state's history, guiding them to think critically about significance.
What are the requirements for a successful Indiana history timeline assignment?
A successful Indiana history timeline should include at least 4 important events with correct dates, clear descriptions, and appropriate illustrations. Events should be in order, and the presentation should be neat and easy to follow, using either a template or a creative alternative.
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