Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Indiana 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.
1679: French explorer, Robert de La Salle, arrives in Indiana.
1702: The first trading post to trade furs was established.
1754: The start of the French and Indian War. The Native Americans ally with the French, but lose the war in 1763 to the British.
1816: Indiana becomes the 19th state.
1911: The first Indianapolis 500 auto race takes place.
(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 Indiana's history.
Student Instructions:
Requirements: At least 4 events, correct dates, descriptions, and appropriate illustrations for each event.
Design a scavenger hunt where students find clues about key Indiana history events posted around your classroom or school. This interactive approach helps students learn facts while staying active and engaged.
Write short clues or questions related to important Indiana events you want students to discover. Hide them in envelopes, boxes, or behind objects to create a sense of adventure and mystery.
Split students into small teams and clearly outline how they’ll search for clues, record answers, and demonstrate teamwork. Set expectations for respectful behavior and fair play throughout the activity.
Begin the scavenger hunt and circulate to offer hints, keep students on track, and ensure everyone participates. This fosters collaboration and keeps students focused on learning objectives.
Gather everyone at the end to discuss the answers and highlight interesting facts students discovered. Celebrate their success with small rewards or a class reflection on Indiana’s history.
To create a simple Indiana history timeline for elementary students, select 4-6 key events (like statehood or major explorations), list them in order with dates, and add brief descriptions and illustrations for each. Using a template or poster format helps make the timeline visual and easy to understand.
Key events for an Indiana state history timeline often include Robert de La Salle's arrival (1679), the first trading post (1702), the French and Indian War (1754-1763), Indiana's statehood (1816), and the first Indianapolis 500 (1911). Choose events that highlight major changes or milestones in the state's development.
A fun alternative to a traditional timeline is having students make a timeline poster for presentations or gallery walks. Students can use art, images, and creative layouts to showcase Indiana's history in a more engaging format.
Encourage students to select events that had a lasting impact on Indiana, brought major change, or represent important milestones. Discuss why each event matters and how it shaped the state's history, guiding them to think critically about significance.
A successful Indiana history timeline should include at least 4 important events with correct dates, clear descriptions, and appropriate illustrations. Events should be in order, and the presentation should be neat and easy to follow, using either a template or a creative alternative.