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 Washington and create a timeline of key 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 Washington History
1775: Spanish explorer Bruno Heceta claims the land for Spain.
1889: On November 11, Washington becomes the 42nd state.
1897: Seattle’s population grows as a result of the Klondike Gold Rush.
1962: The Space Needle opens in Seattle.
1980: Mount Saint Helens erupts.
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 Washington’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 Washington and create a timeline of key 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 Washington History
1775: Spanish explorer Bruno Heceta claims the land for Spain.
1889: On November 11, Washington becomes the 42nd state.
1897: Seattle’s population grows as a result of the Klondike Gold Rush.
1962: The Space Needle opens in Seattle.
1980: Mount Saint Helens erupts.
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 Washington’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 Washington State History
Encourage Students to Evaluate Sources for Washington State History
Guide students to use multiple reliable sources when researching timeline events. Discuss why it’s important to check facts and compare information from books, websites, and primary documents.
Model How to Take Notes on Key Historical Events
Show students how to jot down short, focused notes as they learn about each event. Emphasize capturing dates, main facts, and why the event was important to Washington State.
Help Students Decide Which Events to Include
Ask students to choose events that had major impacts on the state’s people, culture, or development. Encourage them to explain their choices and think about what makes an event significant.
Support Students in Creating Visual Representations
Provide examples of simple drawings or digital images that illustrate historical events. Suggest using symbols, maps, or characters to make each timeline entry more engaging and easy to understand.
Facilitate a Timeline Gallery Walk for Peer Feedback
Organize a gallery walk where students display their timelines. Encourage peers to leave positive comments and constructive feedback, helping everyone reflect on their learning and presentation skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Washington State History
What are the most important events to include in a Washington State history timeline for students?
Key events for a Washington State history timeline include the 1775 Spanish claim by Bruno Heceta, statehood in 1889, the 1897 Klondike Gold Rush's impact on Seattle, the 1962 opening of the Space Needle, and the 1980 Mount Saint Helens eruption. These milestones highlight significant moments in the state's development.
How can I help students create a timeline of Washington State history in the classroom?
Guide students by providing blank timeline templates and example events. Encourage research on important dates, adding images for each event, and discussing why each event is significant. Offering poster or digital options makes the activity engaging for all learners.
What is a simple way to teach Washington State history to grades 3-6?
A timeline activity is a simple and interactive way to teach Washington State history. Students select 4-6 key events, research the details, and illustrate each event, helping them understand sequencing and historical importance.
What makes an event significant enough to include in a state history timeline?
An event is timeline-worthy if it had a major impact on the state's development, culture, or identity, such as statehood, population booms, or natural disasters. Encourage students to look for events that changed the course of Washington's history.
What are some creative alternatives to a traditional timeline project about Washington State?
Creative alternatives include making timeline posters for presentations, designing gallery walk displays, or using digital storytelling tools. Providing multiple templates lets students choose how they showcase their learning about Washington State history.
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