Activity Overview
The decade of the Great Depression and the years preceding it were full of events that contributed to the cause and eventual end of the Depression. By creating a timeline, students will be able to visually understand the sequence of events, how things were connected, and also the political change that came with it. They should examine of the major events leading to, taking place during, and following after the Great Depression. Teachers can provide a list of events for students to research, or students can select the events they deem important.
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 update the instructions accordingly.
Extended Activity
Have students create a timeline of the major events leading to the recession of 2008. Students can start at any point within the decade (this can also be teacher led), and end with how the recession was finally resolved. This again will provide a comparative analysis with what occurred in 1930s America, during the Great Depression.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a timeline that illustrates the major events of the Great Depression.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Add additional cells as necessary.
- In the title of each cell, note the major events in the rise and fall of the Great Depression.
- In each description box, describe the event.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
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
The decade of the Great Depression and the years preceding it were full of events that contributed to the cause and eventual end of the Depression. By creating a timeline, students will be able to visually understand the sequence of events, how things were connected, and also the political change that came with it. They should examine of the major events leading to, taking place during, and following after the Great Depression. Teachers can provide a list of events for students to research, or students can select the events they deem important.
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 update the instructions accordingly.
Extended Activity
Have students create a timeline of the major events leading to the recession of 2008. Students can start at any point within the decade (this can also be teacher led), and end with how the recession was finally resolved. This again will provide a comparative analysis with what occurred in 1930s America, during the Great Depression.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a timeline that illustrates the major events of the Great Depression.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Add additional cells as necessary.
- In the title of each cell, note the major events in the rise and fall of the Great Depression.
- In each description box, describe the event.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
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 A Timeline of the Great Depression
How to Facilitate a Class Discussion on the Impact of the Great Depression
Begin by setting clear objectives for the discussion, such as understanding economic, social, and political effects of the Great Depression. Frame the conversation so students know what to focus on and what they should gain from participating.
Invite students to share their timeline findings
Encourage students to present key events from their timelines, highlighting details that stood out to them. Foster peer learning by allowing each student to contribute unique insights.
Ask open-ended questions to spark deeper thinking
Pose questions like, "How did the Great Depression change daily life?" or "Which event do you think had the most lasting impact?" Guide students to think critically and support their answers with evidence from their timelines.
Connect the discussion to students’ lives today
Challenge students to compare the Great Depression to more recent economic events or hardships. Encourage reflection on how economic downturns affect communities and families in the present day.
Summarize key discussion points collaboratively
Work with the class to list major takeaways on the board or in a shared document. Reinforce understanding by tying students’ comments back to the objectives and timeline activity.
Frequently Asked Questions about A Timeline of the Great Depression
What are the key events to include in a Great Depression timeline for students?
Key events to include in a Great Depression timeline are the Stock Market Crash of 1929, bank failures, the Dust Bowl, the New Deal programs, and the end of the Depression with World War II. Each event helps students understand the causes, major impacts, and recovery efforts during this period.
How can I help students create a Great Depression timeline in the classroom?
Begin by giving students a list of major events or letting them choose their own. Have them organize events chronologically, add short descriptions, and illustrate each event. Encourage creativity with posters, digital tools, or gallery walks to make learning interactive.
What is the educational benefit of students making a timeline about the Great Depression?
Making a timeline helps students visualize the sequence of events, understand cause and effect, and connect historical events with political and economic changes. It encourages research, critical thinking, and better retention of key facts.
Can I compare the Great Depression timeline to the 2008 recession in a high school lesson?
Yes, comparing timelines of the Great Depression and the 2008 recession helps students analyze similarities and differences in economic causes, government responses, and recovery strategies, deepening their understanding of economic history.
What are some creative ways to present a Great Depression timeline project?
Creative presentation ideas include making a timeline poster, using digital timeline tools, creating a gallery walk with student work, or incorporating illustrations and multimedia. Multiple templates or formats can boost engagement and accommodate different learning styles.
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