Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Illinois 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.
1673: French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet claim Illinois land for France.
1763: The British take over the land after their French and Indian War victory.
1818: Illinois is the 21st state admitted into statehood on December 3.
1832: The Native Americans lose the Blackhawk War and are forced out of Illinois.
1871: The Great Chicago Fire
1973: The Sears Tower, now known as the Willis Tower, is built.
(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 Illinois' history.
Student Instructions
Requirements: At least 4 events, correct dates, descriptions, and appropriate illustrations for each event.
Guide students in evaluating which historical events are most significant to include in their timelines. Explain how to look for events that had major impacts on Illinois’ people, culture, or development. Encourage them to ask, “Would Illinois be different today if this event hadn’t happened?” and discuss their reasoning before selecting.
Demonstrate how to use age-appropriate sources, such as library books or reputable websites, to find accurate information. Show students how to take simple notes on key facts and dates to help them organize their findings for the timeline.
Inspire students to draw or digitally create images that clearly represent each event. Remind them to include important details like clothing, locations, or symbols that make the events memorable and meaningful.
Arrange for students to exchange timelines and give friendly, constructive feedback. Suggest they check for correct sequencing, accurate facts, and clear illustrations. This helps students reflect and improve their work before presenting.
Key events for an Illinois history timeline include the 1673 French exploration by Marquette and Joliet, the 1763 British takeover, Illinois becoming the 21st state in 1818, the 1832 Blackhawk War, the 1871 Great Chicago Fire, and the construction of the Sears (Willis) Tower in 1973.
Guide students to research key events, select 4–6 significant moments, write descriptions, list events in order with dates, and illustrate each event. Use templates or allow students to design their own timelines or posters for presentations.
Interactive activities like creating timelines or timeline posters help students engage with Illinois history. Encourage discussion about why each event is significant and use visuals to enhance understanding.
Students should pick events that had a major impact on Illinois, are historically significant, and can be clearly explained and illustrated, such as statehood or major cultural changes.
Yes, students can create timeline posters for gallery walks or presentations, use digital templates, or combine images and text for a more interactive approach.