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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming History
1800s: European fur traders and explorers, such as John Colter and Jim Bridger, venture into Wyoming in search of furs and trade routes. Later in the 1800s, thousands of pioneers travel through Wyoming on the Oregon Trail and other westward trails in search of a better life.
1869: Wyoming becomes the first state to grant women the right to vote and hold public office, earning it the nickname "The Equality State."
1860s-1870s: The building of the Transcontinental Railroad brings rapid growth and development to Wyoming, connecting it to the rest of the country.
1872: Yellowstone National Park is established as the world's first national park, spanning parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.
1890: Wyoming becomes the 44th state in the United States on July 10, 1890.
1925: Nellie Tayloe Ross is elected as the first woman governor in the United States, serving in Wyoming.
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 Wyoming’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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming History
1800s: European fur traders and explorers, such as John Colter and Jim Bridger, venture into Wyoming in search of furs and trade routes. Later in the 1800s, thousands of pioneers travel through Wyoming on the Oregon Trail and other westward trails in search of a better life.
1869: Wyoming becomes the first state to grant women the right to vote and hold public office, earning it the nickname "The Equality State."
1860s-1870s: The building of the Transcontinental Railroad brings rapid growth and development to Wyoming, connecting it to the rest of the country.
1872: Yellowstone National Park is established as the world's first national park, spanning parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.
1890: Wyoming becomes the 44th state in the United States on July 10, 1890.
1925: Nellie Tayloe Ross is elected as the first woman governor in the United States, serving in Wyoming.
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 Wyoming’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 Wyoming Timeline
How to Guide Students in Evaluating Which Events Belong on a State History Timeline
Explain the importance of choosing key events for a timeline. Discuss with students how timelines tell a story using only the most significant events, not every detail.
Model Sorting Historical Events by Impact
Demonstrate how to review a list of events and decide which ones shaped Wyoming’s history the most. Highlight events that changed laws, affected many people, or marked important 'firsts.'
Have Students Justify Their Event Choices
Ask students to explain why each event deserves a spot on the timeline. Encourage them to use evidence from class materials or research to back up their selections.
Encourage Peer Review and Discussion
Organize a partner or small-group share-out where students present their event picks and reasoning. Invite feedback and respectful debate to sharpen critical thinking.
Support Revision Based on New Insights
Guide students to revise their timelines if they discover stronger events or clearer justifications. Emphasize that historians often refine their choices as they learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wyoming Timeline
What are some important events to include in a Wyoming history timeline for students?
Key events for a Wyoming history timeline include the arrival of European fur traders, the Oregon Trail migration, Wyoming granting women the right to vote in 1869, the building of the Transcontinental Railroad, the creation of Yellowstone National Park in 1872, statehood in 1890, and Nellie Tayloe Ross becoming the first woman governor in 1925.
How can I help students create an engaging timeline of Wyoming history?
Encourage students to pick meaningful events, add accurate dates, write detailed descriptions, and include illustrations for each event. Offer both digital and poster templates to let students choose their preferred format for creativity and engagement.
What is the best way to teach Wyoming state history to elementary students?
Using interactive activities like timeline creation or poster presentations helps students visualize and retain historical events. Discussing why each event matters and linking to Wyoming's identity makes the lesson more relevant and memorable.
Why is Wyoming called the Equality State?
Wyoming is known as the Equality State because it was the first to grant women the right to vote and hold public office in 1869, setting a historic precedent for gender equality in the United States.
What template options can I use for a Wyoming history timeline assignment?
Teachers can provide a blank timeline template, allow students to add their own cells, or use poster layouts for gallery walks. Multiple template options help students showcase historical events in creative and organized ways.
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