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 Mexico 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 Mexico History
1598: Juan de Oñate establishes the first permanent Spanish settlement, San Juan de los Caballeros, near present-day Española.
1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and New Mexico becomes a Mexican territory. Also in 1821, the Santa Fe Trail opens, establishing a major trade route between Missouri and Santa Fe.
1846: During the Mexican-American War, U.S. forces under General Stephen Kearny capture New Mexico with little resistance. Two years later in 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the Mexican-American War, ceding New Mexico to the United States.
1912: New Mexico is admitted to the Union as the 47th state on January 6th.
1942: The Manhattan Project operates in Los Alamos, developing the atomic bomb. In 1945, the first atomic bomb test, Trinity, was conducted near Alamogordo on July 16.
1947: The Roswell UFO incident occurs, becoming a major event in UFO lore.
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 Mexico’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 Mexico 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 Mexico History
1598: Juan de Oñate establishes the first permanent Spanish settlement, San Juan de los Caballeros, near present-day Española.
1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and New Mexico becomes a Mexican territory. Also in 1821, the Santa Fe Trail opens, establishing a major trade route between Missouri and Santa Fe.
1846: During the Mexican-American War, U.S. forces under General Stephen Kearny capture New Mexico with little resistance. Two years later in 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the Mexican-American War, ceding New Mexico to the United States.
1912: New Mexico is admitted to the Union as the 47th state on January 6th.
1942: The Manhattan Project operates in Los Alamos, developing the atomic bomb. In 1945, the first atomic bomb test, Trinity, was conducted near Alamogordo on July 16.
1947: The Roswell UFO incident occurs, becoming a major event in UFO lore.
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 Mexico’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 Mexico Timeline
Guide students to evaluate and choose the most significant historical events
Help students brainstorm a list of possible events, then discuss what makes an event historically significant (such as lasting impact, change caused, or relevance to New Mexico's identity). This builds critical thinking and ensures their timelines feature meaningful milestones.
Model how to research and find reliable sources on New Mexico history
Demonstrate how to use school-approved websites, library books, and local resources to collect accurate information. Show students how to take notes and cross-check facts for trustworthy timelines.
Teach students to summarize historical events in their own words
Encourage students to read about each event and then restate the information concisely using their own language. This builds comprehension and helps avoid plagiarism.
Coach students to create engaging illustrations for each timeline event
Inspire creativity by inviting students to sketch, use digital tools, or cut out magazine images that represent each event. Discuss how visuals can make history memorable and support understanding.
Facilitate a peer review or gallery walk of completed timelines
Arrange for students to present their timelines to classmates or participate in a gallery walk. Encourage positive feedback and discussion about different choices and presentation styles to deepen learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about New Mexico Timeline
What are the most important events to include in a New Mexico history timeline for students?
Key events for a New Mexico history timeline include Juan de Oñate’s 1598 settlement, Mexico’s independence in 1821, the opening of the Santa Fe Trail, the U.S. takeover in 1846, New Mexico’s statehood in 1912, the Manhattan Project in 1942, and the Roswell UFO incident in 1947. These events capture major turning points in the state’s history.
How can I help my students create an engaging timeline of New Mexico's history?
To create an engaging timeline, provide students with templates, encourage them to research and select meaningful events, write clear descriptions, and use images or drawings to illustrate each event. Consider allowing timeline posters or digital formats for variety.
What is a simple lesson plan for teaching New Mexico's history using a timeline activity?
Start with a brief overview of New Mexico’s history, then assign students to create a 4–6 event timeline. Supply templates, guide them to include correct dates and illustrations, and have them present their timelines or display them in a gallery walk.
Why is it important for students to choose which events to include on a timeline?
Choosing events teaches students to evaluate historical significance, practice critical thinking, and understand cause and effect. It helps them connect events and see how history shapes present-day New Mexico.
What templates or tools can teachers use for timeline activities with grades 3-6?
Teachers can use printable timeline templates, online timeline makers, or poster boards. Many digital platforms offer customizable timeline layouts, making it easy for students in grades 3–6 to add images and descriptions.
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