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 Nebraska 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 Nebraska History
c. 10,000 BCE: Paleo-Indians, the earliest known inhabitants, arrive in the region, followed by various Native American tribes such as the Omaha, Ponca, Pawnee, Otoe, and Sioux.
1541: Spanish explorer Francisco Vázquez de Coronado explores parts of Nebraska. Years later, in 1682, French explorer Robert Cavelier de La Salle claims the region for France as part of the Louisiana Territory.
1803: The United States acquires Nebraska as part of the Louisiana Purchase from France.
1843-1869: The Oregon Trail, which runs through Nebraska, becomes a major route for westward migration. In 1848, Fort Kearny is established to protect travelers on the Oregon Trail.
1867: Nebraska is admitted to the Union as the 37th state on March 1. Lincoln is designated as the state capital.
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 Nebraska’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 Nebraska 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 Nebraska History
c. 10,000 BCE: Paleo-Indians, the earliest known inhabitants, arrive in the region, followed by various Native American tribes such as the Omaha, Ponca, Pawnee, Otoe, and Sioux.
1541: Spanish explorer Francisco Vázquez de Coronado explores parts of Nebraska. Years later, in 1682, French explorer Robert Cavelier de La Salle claims the region for France as part of the Louisiana Territory.
1803: The United States acquires Nebraska as part of the Louisiana Purchase from France.
1843-1869: The Oregon Trail, which runs through Nebraska, becomes a major route for westward migration. In 1848, Fort Kearny is established to protect travelers on the Oregon Trail.
1867: Nebraska is admitted to the Union as the 37th state on March 1. Lincoln is designated as the state capital.
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 Nebraska’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 Nebraska Timeline
Engage Students with Nebraska History Timeline Discussions
Encourage student discussion by asking open-ended questions about each event on the timeline. Invite students to share what they think made each event important and how it shaped Nebraska's history. This helps students develop critical thinking and historical empathy.
Model adding descriptive details to timeline events
Demonstrate how to expand a simple event label into a detailed description using who, what, when, where, and why. This practice helps students add depth and context to their timelines, making them more engaging and informative.
Facilitate peer review of timeline projects
Organize a peer review session where students exchange timelines and provide feedback on accuracy, detail, and creativity. This process encourages collaboration and helps students learn from each other’s work.
Incorporate visuals and primary sources
Guide students to use images, maps, or primary source excerpts for each timeline event. Adding visuals and authentic documents brings history to life and deepens understanding.
Showcase timelines in a classroom gallery walk
Display student timelines around the room and allow classmates to walk through, observe, and leave positive feedback notes. This builds pride in their work and reinforces historical learning in a fun, interactive way.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nebraska Timeline
What is a Nebraska timeline activity for elementary students?
A Nebraska timeline activity asks students to research and organize important events in Nebraska's history in chronological order. This helps students understand historical sequence and the significance of each event.
How can I help students choose key events for a Nebraska history timeline?
Guide students to select major milestones like early Native American settlements, exploration, statehood, and significant migrations. Encourage them to focus on events that shaped Nebraska’s identity or had lasting impacts.
What are some important events to include in a Nebraska timeline?
Notable events include the arrival of Paleo-Indians (c. 10,000 BCE), explorations by Coronado (1541) and La Salle (1682), the Louisiana Purchase (1803), the Oregon Trail era, Fort Kearny’s establishment (1848), and Nebraska’s statehood in 1867.
What is a good alternative to a digital timeline for Nebraska history lessons?
A creative alternative is a timeline poster, where students draw or collage historical events on a large sheet for a gallery walk or group presentation. This supports artistic expression and collaborative learning.
What requirements should a Nebraska history timeline assignment include for grades 3–6?
The assignment should have at least 4 events with accurate dates, detailed descriptions, and relevant illustrations for each event. Clarity, creativity, and chronological order are essential for grades 3–6.
More Storyboard That Activities
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