A 5 Ws analysis allows students to dig into historical events and time periods with the help of a graphic organizer. In this activity, students will highlight the 5 Ws of the Canadian fur trade. Teachers may also ask students to add a 6th cell for "how", though it's not required. Below are some sample questions students may answer.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that highlights the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the Fur Trade.
Student Instructions:
Requirements: Answer 5-6 questions about the Fur Trade and include appropriate illustrations for each.
Adapt the graphic organizer by offering templates with sentence starters or visuals for students who need extra support. This helps all learners engage with content at their own pace and ability.
Allow students to answer the 5 Ws using written sentences, bulleted lists, audio recordings, or drawings. Multiple formats increase accessibility and student confidence.
Assign students to discuss the 5 Ws in small groups before completing their own organizer. This builds background knowledge and supports peer learning.
Provide sentence frames and key vocabulary lists related to the fur trade. This scaffolds language for English learners and students who benefit from extra structure.
Pause after each W to review student responses and offer quick feedback. Frequent check-ins prevent confusion and reinforce understanding.
The Canadian fur trade was a historic exchange of animal furs, especially beaver pelts, between Indigenous peoples and European settlers. It played a major role in shaping early Canadian history by driving exploration, economic growth, and cultural interactions.
Use a graphic organizer or spider map to help students answer the Who, What, When, Where, and Why of the fur trade. Encourage them to write brief answers and create simple illustrations for each aspect to deepen understanding.
Sample questions include: What was the fur trade? Who was involved? When and where did it happen? Why did it start? and How did it impact North America?
The fur trade led to new settlements, alliances, and conflicts between Indigenous peoples and Europeans. It influenced economic patterns and shaped Canada's early development and cultural landscape.
A 5 Ws analysis using a spider map is effective for exploring the fur trade. Students answer key questions and illustrate each point, supporting both comprehension and creativity.