Activity Overview
The Annexation of Texas was a great victory for the United States. Both the acquisition of territory and military successes benefited the economy and standing of the U.S., and like with every land acquisition, continued to grow the reach of the country. But before the Annexation was Texas' fight for independence, something equally important in the history of the state and America as a whole.
Using a grid storyboard, students will examine both Texas’ fight for independence, as well as its eventual annexation into America as a state. One row will be used to explain Texan Independence and the other will focus on the Mexican-American War, in which Texas is fought for and won. Students will focus on major figures, major events, significance, and effects in regards to Texas as a territorial acquisition. Students will then analyze and connect Texas’ own fight for independence, and their eventual path to statehood, with America’s overall history of expansion.
This activity can be broken into smaller pieces among groups, if desired. One group can focus on Texan Independence,another group on the Annexation of Texas, or students can complete one column of the grid.
Extended Activity
Have students research the history of Mexico and their path to becoming an independent nation. This will give a more global perspective on Texas as a territory, and a more expansive history of the land, culture, and people of South Central North America. Use the grid storyboard layout detailing both French and Spanish control of the region, and Mexico’s path to independence.
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 storyboard examining the Texan fight for independence and their annexation into the United States.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Label the title boxes "Major Figures", "Major Events", "Significance", and "Major Effects".
- In the top row, write a summary for each as it relates to Texan Independence.
- In the bottom, do the same for the Annexation of Texas.
- Create an illustrating using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
The Annexation of Texas was a great victory for the United States. Both the acquisition of territory and military successes benefited the economy and standing of the U.S., and like with every land acquisition, continued to grow the reach of the country. But before the Annexation was Texas' fight for independence, something equally important in the history of the state and America as a whole.
Using a grid storyboard, students will examine both Texas’ fight for independence, as well as its eventual annexation into America as a state. One row will be used to explain Texan Independence and the other will focus on the Mexican-American War, in which Texas is fought for and won. Students will focus on major figures, major events, significance, and effects in regards to Texas as a territorial acquisition. Students will then analyze and connect Texas’ own fight for independence, and their eventual path to statehood, with America’s overall history of expansion.
This activity can be broken into smaller pieces among groups, if desired. One group can focus on Texan Independence,another group on the Annexation of Texas, or students can complete one column of the grid.
Extended Activity
Have students research the history of Mexico and their path to becoming an independent nation. This will give a more global perspective on Texas as a territory, and a more expansive history of the land, culture, and people of South Central North America. Use the grid storyboard layout detailing both French and Spanish control of the region, and Mexico’s path to independence.
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 storyboard examining the Texan fight for independence and their annexation into the United States.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Label the title boxes "Major Figures", "Major Events", "Significance", and "Major Effects".
- In the top row, write a summary for each as it relates to Texan Independence.
- In the bottom, do the same for the Annexation of Texas.
- Create an illustrating using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Texan Independence and Annexation
Incorporate primary sources to deepen student understanding
Gather age-appropriate primary sources such as letters, newspaper excerpts, or political cartoons from the era. These authentic materials help students connect with historical figures and events on a personal level.
Guide students to analyze sources for perspective and bias
Prompt students to identify who created each source and discuss their possible motivations. This builds critical thinking and helps students recognize differing viewpoints in history.
Facilitate small-group discussions on findings
Organize students into small groups to share insights from their source analysis. Encourage respectful discussion and comparison of perspectives to foster collaboration.
Connect primary source analysis to the storyboard grid
Have students use evidence from primary sources to support their entries in the storyboard grid. This demonstrates how firsthand accounts inform historical interpretation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Texan Independence and Annexation
What is the difference between Texan Independence and the Annexation of Texas?
Texan Independence refers to Texas breaking away from Mexico in 1836 to become its own republic, while the Annexation of Texas in 1845 was when Texas officially became a state within the United States.
How can students use a grid storyboard to study Texan Independence and Annexation?
Students can use a grid storyboard by creating rows for Texan Independence and the Annexation of Texas, and columns labeled for key topics like major figures, events, significance, and effects. Each cell summarizes or illustrates important details, making complex history easy to visualize.
Who were the major figures involved in Texas' fight for independence?
Key figures include Sam Houston, leader of the Texan army; Stephen F. Austin, known as the "Father of Texas"; Santa Anna, the Mexican president and general; and Davy Crockett, a hero at the Alamo.
What was the significance of the Annexation of Texas for the United States?
The Annexation of Texas expanded U.S. territory, boosted the economy, and set the stage for the Mexican-American War. It also intensified debates over slavery and the balance of power between free and slave states.
What are some easy classroom activities to teach about Texan Independence and Annexation?
Try using storyboard charts with labeled sections, group research on major events, or having students illustrate key moments. Assigning different groups to focus on independence, annexation, or international perspectives helps engage the class.
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