Linda M. Sander, Kenneth Henderson Middle School, Garden City, KS
HISTORY OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
Appropriate for grades 6-12.
OVERVIEW: In America the history of the "West" has always
intrigued people of all ages. The "West" has been depicted in
countless movies and books. But if people actually study the
"West" and its past history, they discover there were many reasons
besides land for bringing people to what is today the Central
Plains, and as many reasons as there are people for them staying.
The Central Plains has developed into an area with economic
activities and problems distinct only to it. Yet the area has
much in common with other parts of the U.S. By studying the
history, economy and government of a local community a person can
learn much about a whole area.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this activity package is to provide
students with activities which will familiarize them with the
local area they live in and develop an awareness of how their
local community has been influenced by history. The activities
also help them become aware of how the local community influences
their lives today.
OBJECTIVES: Students will be able to:
1. Identify and list the founding fathers of your city, and
describe at least one contribution of each to the local
community.
2. Identify at least five people who influenced the development
of your city and county.
3. Identify at least five economic activities that have
contributed to the growth of your city, county, and state,
both past and present, and give examples how at least two
have changed the area.
ACTIVITIES:
1. Using materials from the local library and historical
society, the students do research and write reports about how
the founding fathers established your city.
2. Arrange a field trip to the county historical museum to see
pictures and artifacts surrounding the early history of the
area. The curator for the museum can give students
individual help on projects and inform the group about
historical information.
3. Interview local citizens who have lived in your city for a
long period of time.
4. Using information from the Historical Society and Chamber of
Commerce, students do reports or posters about famous people
who have influenced the growth of your city and county.
RESOURCES/MATERIALS NEEDED: Resources available in local
community.
TYING IT ALL TOGETHER: Studying your local area gives students a
different view of history.
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