Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Nevada 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.
1846: During the winter of 1846-1847, The Donner Party wagons are snowbound due to an early blizzard in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
1864: Nevada was the 36th state admitted into the Union on October 31, 1864.
1875: A fire destroys much of Virginia City.
1931: Gambling is legalized in the state.
1936: The construction of the Hoover Dam is completed.
(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 Nevada’s history.
Student Instructions
Enrich student timelines by guiding them to include primary sources such as historical photos, newspaper clippings, or short diary entries from the era. This approach encourages students to connect more personally with events and understand the context behind them.
Locate kid-friendly primary sources about Nevada’s history from reputable sites like state archives or museums. Share printouts or links so students can explore and select items to support their timeline events.
Choose one primary source related to a Nevada event and think aloud as you examine its details, date, and origin. Discuss what it reveals about the event and why it is trustworthy, helping students build critical analysis skills.
Have students match a primary source to each timeline entry, adding a short caption to explain its significance. This step makes their timelines more engaging and evidence-based.
Invite students to present their timelines and explain how their chosen sources enhance understanding of Nevada history. This activity promotes confidence, communication skills, and deeper historical appreciation.
Key events to feature in a Nevada history timeline include the Donner Party's ordeal in 1846-1847, Nevada's statehood in 1864, the Virginia City fire of 1875, legalization of gambling in 1931, and the completion of Hoover Dam in 1936.
Guide students to research major Nevada events, organize them chronologically, and include dates, descriptions, and images for each. Use templates or poster formats to make the activity engaging.
Instead of a traditional timeline, students can create a timeline poster for presentations or a gallery walk, allowing for more creativity and group sharing.
Students should include events that had a major impact on Nevada's development, are historically significant, and can be explained with clear details and visuals.
For grades 3–6, it's best to include 4–6 important events to keep the timeline focused and manageable for students.