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 Tennessee and create a timeline of important 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 Tennessee History
1541: Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto is the first European to visit Tennessee.
1796: Tennessee is the 16th state admitted into statehood on June 1.
1861: Tennessee is the last state to join the Confederacy during the Civil War. Five years later, it is the first state to be readmitted by the Union.
1933: The first hydroelectric dam is built by the Tennessee Valley Authority.
1968: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.
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 Tennessee’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 and exit when you're finished.
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 Tennessee and create a timeline of important 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 Tennessee History
1541: Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto is the first European to visit Tennessee.
1796: Tennessee is the 16th state admitted into statehood on June 1.
1861: Tennessee is the last state to join the Confederacy during the Civil War. Five years later, it is the first state to be readmitted by the Union.
1933: The first hydroelectric dam is built by the Tennessee Valley Authority.
1968: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.
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 Tennessee’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 and exit when you're finished.
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 Tennessee History
Encourage Student Collaboration on Tennessee History Timelines
Promote teamwork by having students work in pairs or small groups to create timelines. Collaboration can spark discussion, deepen understanding, and help students learn from each other's research and perspectives.
Assign Research Roles Within Groups
Distribute responsibilities by assigning each student a specific role, such as researcher, writer, or illustrator. This structured approach keeps everyone engaged and ensures all parts of the timeline are thoughtfully completed.
Guide Students to Use Primary and Secondary Sources
Encourage authentic research by prompting students to use both primary sources (like photos or letters) and secondary sources (such as history websites or books). Blending sources helps students build critical thinking skills and a richer understanding of Tennessee history.
Facilitate a Timeline Gallery Walk
Showcase student work by organizing a gallery walk where timelines are displayed around the classroom. Peers can walk around, ask questions, and leave feedback. This activity builds presentation skills and celebrates student learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Timeline of Tennessee History
What are the most important events to include in a Tennessee history timeline for students?
Key events for a Tennessee history timeline include Hernando de Soto's exploration (1541), statehood (1796), joining and rejoining the Union during the Civil War (1861, 1866), the building of the first TVA dam (1933), and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s assassination in Memphis (1968).
How can I help my students create a Tennessee history timeline in class?
Start by providing a blank timeline template or let students design their own. Guide them to research and select 4-6 significant events, add dates, write short descriptions, and create simple images for each event. Encourage creativity through posters or digital presentations.
What is a timeline activity and why is it helpful for teaching Tennessee history?
A timeline activity helps students organize historical events in chronological order. This visual approach makes it easier to understand cause and effect, see historical progress, and remember key moments in Tennessee’s past.
Are there alternative ways to present a Tennessee history timeline besides a standard layout?
Yes, students can create timeline posters for gallery walks, use digital tools, or design creative presentations that combine images and text. Offering multiple templates or formats keeps the activity engaging and accessible for all learners.
What grade levels is the Tennessee history timeline activity best suited for?
This timeline activity is recommended for grades 3-6, making it ideal for upper elementary students learning about state history and practicing research and sequencing skills.
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