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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey History
1664: English seize control from the Dutch, establishing New Jersey as a proprietary colony with East Jersey and West Jersey.
1776: Battles of Trenton and Princeton during the Revolutionary War provide crucial victories for the Continental Army, boosting morale and strategic position.
1787: New Jersey ratifies the U.S. Constitution on December 18, becoming the third state to join the Union.
1840s: Industrial Revolution transforms New Jersey into a hub of manufacturing and innovation, particularly in cities like Newark and Paterson.
1920s: New Jersey becomes a center for transportation, telecommunications, and pharmaceutical industries, contributing significantly to national and global economies.
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 New Jersey’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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey History
1664: English seize control from the Dutch, establishing New Jersey as a proprietary colony with East Jersey and West Jersey.
1776: Battles of Trenton and Princeton during the Revolutionary War provide crucial victories for the Continental Army, boosting morale and strategic position.
1787: New Jersey ratifies the U.S. Constitution on December 18, becoming the third state to join the Union.
1840s: Industrial Revolution transforms New Jersey into a hub of manufacturing and innovation, particularly in cities like Newark and Paterson.
1920s: New Jersey becomes a center for transportation, telecommunications, and pharmaceutical industries, contributing significantly to national and global economies.
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 New Jersey’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 New Jersey Timeline
Organize students for collaborative timeline research
Assign roles like researcher, recorder, and illustrator to each group member. This ensures everyone participates and the timeline project moves smoothly with shared responsibility.
Guide students in selecting significant New Jersey events
Encourage students to use reliable sources and evaluate which events had a lasting impact on the state's history. This practice builds critical thinking and research skills.
Facilitate creation of visually engaging timeline posters
Provide materials such as colored paper, markers, and images. Model how to combine text and visuals for maximum impact so students can showcase their knowledge creatively.
Incorporate peer review and constructive feedback
Set up a gallery walk where students view each other's timelines and share positive, specific feedback. This supports collaboration and helps students refine their work.
Celebrate and reflect on students’ timeline projects
Host a class discussion or mini-presentation where students explain their choices. Reflection deepens understanding and builds presentation skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about New Jersey Timeline
What are the most important events to include in a New Jersey history timeline for students?
Key events to include in a New Jersey timeline are the 1664 English takeover from the Dutch, the 1776 Revolutionary War battles of Trenton and Princeton, New Jersey's 1787 ratification of the U.S. Constitution, the 1840s Industrial Revolution, and the 1920s growth in transportation and pharmaceuticals. These events highlight turning points in the state's development.
How can I help students create an engaging New Jersey timeline project?
Encourage students to research significant events, use visuals for each timeline entry, and add details about why each event matters. Offering templates and allowing timeline posters or digital timelines can make the project more interactive and personalized.
What is the best way to teach New Jersey history to elementary students?
The best way is to combine hands-on activities like timeline creation, storytelling, and visual aids. Letting students choose important events and present them through posters or digital timelines boosts engagement and understanding.
What should be included in a student timeline assignment for New Jersey history?
Include at least 4 key events with accurate dates, detailed descriptions, and relevant illustrations. Students should organize events in order and explain each event's significance to New Jersey's history.
Are there template options for creating a New Jersey history timeline in the classroom?
Yes, teachers can provide blank timeline templates or allow students to design their own. Some may prefer digital timelines, while others might create posters for presentations or gallery walks.
More Storyboard That Activities
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