Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Oklahoma 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.
1682: French explorers, led by Robert de La Salle, claim the region for France, calling it part of "Louisiana."
1803: The United States acquires the land that includes Oklahoma through the Louisiana Purchase.
1830s: The U.S. government forcibly relocates many Native American tribes to Indian Territory (modern-day Oklahoma) in events known as the Trail of Tears. In 1834, Indian Territory is officially established by the US government.
1889: The Land Run of 1889 takes place on April 22, opening up unassigned lands to settlers. Thousands rush to claim land, leading to the term "Sooners" for those who entered early.
1907: Oklahoma becomes the 46th state of the United States on November 16.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a 4-6 cell timeline of important events in Oklahoma’s history.
Student Instructions
Requirements: At least 4 events, correct dates, descriptions, and appropriate illustrations for each event.
Guide your students to analyze why each event matters by leading a whole-class discussion after timelines are created. Ask students to share which events they chose and explain their reasoning. Encourage them to consider the impact each event had on Oklahoma and its people. This helps students practice critical thinking and connect history to real-life consequences.
Ask students to list key events they already know or want to research about Oklahoma. Brainstorming as a class or in small groups helps activate prior knowledge and sets a purpose for research.
Demonstrate finding reliable sources and evaluating which events are most important. Show students how to look for dates, causes, and effects to decide what belongs on the timeline.
Work with students to arrange chosen events in chronological order. Use visuals like sticky notes or index cards to physically move events around, making sure dates and order are correct. Sequencing builds a clear understanding of historical progression.
Remind students to write clear, detailed descriptions for each event and choose or create images that truly represent what happened. Specific details and visuals help make timelines engaging and informative for all learners.
Key events for an Oklahoma history timeline include the French claim in 1682, the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the Trail of Tears and establishment of Indian Territory in the 1830s, the Land Run of 1889, and Oklahoma statehood in 1907.
Use a visual timeline template, encourage students to research and select significant events, add detailed descriptions, and create illustrations or posters for a gallery walk or presentation to keep the activity engaging.
Provide a blank timeline template with space for 4-6 events. Have students fill in event names, dates, short descriptions, and add drawings or images to represent each event.
The Land Run of 1889 opened unassigned lands to settlers, leading to rapid population growth and the nickname "Sooners" for those who claimed land early. It was a turning point in Oklahoma's development.
Selecting meaningful events helps students understand the most impactful moments in Oklahoma's history and develop skills in research, critical thinking, and historical analysis.