Trailblazers: The Extraordinary Adventures of Young Pioneers on the Oregon Trail
Embark on a Timeless Journey: Empowering children as trialblazers on the Oregon Trail, where young pioneers explore history, resilience, and teamwork in an immersive educational experience.
April Rogers
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:(293)
What's included
3 live meetings
3 in-class hoursAssessment
In assessing learner progress, I employ informal assessment methods that provide valuable insights into students' understanding and growth. These informal assessments may include class discussions, observations, projects, quizzes, and one-on-one interactions all determined by the type of class being taken. By utilizing these methods, I can gauge students' comprehension, critical thinking skills, and ability to apply knowledge in real-world contexts. It's important to note that these assessments are not solely based on letter grades. Rather, they focus on providing meaningful feedback and identifying areas where students excel or require further support, The emphasis is on fostering a growth mindset and encouraging students to take ownership of the learning journey. While letter grades are not the primary focus of informal assessments, I acknowledge that some parents may request them. In such cases, upon parental request, I can provide a letter grade that reflects the student's performance based don't the established grading criteria. However, I believe that the value of informal assessments lies in their ability to provide a more holistic understanding of a student's progress beyond a simple letter grade.Grading
includedClass Experience
US Grade 2 - 5
Beginner Level
Step into the shoes of brave young pioneers and embark on a captivating journey back in time along the Oregon Trail! In this immersive class, we will dive into the remarkable lives of children who traveled across the vast wilderness in covered wagons. Get ready to explore their challenges, triumphs, and the lessons they learned along the trail. During our three engaging 55-minute meetings, we will uncover the fascinating details of their extraordinary journey. In class 1, we will discuss the preparations necessary for traveling the Oregon Trail, from gathering supplies to bidding farewell to loved ones. We will delve into the reasons why families decided to make the arduous trek westward to Oregon, exploring the dreams and opportunities that awaited them. In class 2, we will delve into the hardships, excitement, and encounters with Native American tribes and fellow pioneers that the young travelers faced during their expeditions. We will learn about the diverse cultures they encountered and the resourcefullness that helped them overcome adversities, Class 3 will mark the conclusion of their epic journey as they reach their destination in Oregon. We will discover how these courageous pioneers built their new homes, adapted to the challenges of the frontier, and established thriving communities. We will celebrate their resilience, determination, and the lasting impact they had on shaping the American West. Throughout the class, we will explore the daily lives of children on the trail We will uncover what they packed in their covered wagons, from essentials to cherished mementos, and learn about the foods they ate and how they cooked them on the trail. We will also discover where they slept, the games they played, and the toys they cherished during their long eventful journey. Using interactive discussions, engaging visuals, and captivating stories, young trailblazers will gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal chapter in American history. By the end of the class, they will have a newfound appreciation for ht courage, resilience, and spirit of adventure displayed by the young pioneers who shaped the American West, So grab your imaginary covered wagon and join us on this thrilling expedition along the Oregon Trail.
Learning Goals
1. Understand the historical context: Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the Oregon Trail, its significance in American history, and the motivations that led families to embark on this challenging journey.
2. Explore daily life on the trail: Students will learn about the experiences of children who traveled on the Oregon Trail, including what they packed in their covered wagons, the types of food they ate, where they cooked their meals, and where they slept during their travels,
3. Identify challenges and hardships: Students will explore the hardships faced by young pioneers, such as rough terrain, harsh weather conditions, encounters with Native American tribes, and the scarcity of resources. They will develop an appreciation for the resilience and determination displayed by the pioneers.
4. Discover cultural encounters: Students learn about the diverse cultures and people encountered along the trail, including Native American tribes and fellow pioneers. They will gain insights into the interactions, conflicts, and cooperation that took place during this time.
5. Understand the settlement process: Students will explore the process of settling in Oregon and the challenges pioneers faced in establishing new homes and communities. They will gain an understanding of the impact these settlements had on the development of the American West.
6. Foster critical thinking and empathy: Through discussions and activities, students will develop critical thinking skills by analyzing the choices made by young pioneers and their families. They will also cultivate empathy by putting themselves in the shoes of these courageous adventurers.
7. Apprectiae the spirit of adventure: Students will discover the sense of adventure that fueled the pioneers' journey and the importance of embracing challenges and stepping into the unknown.
By the end of the class, students will have a deeper knowledge of the history of the Oregon Trail, an understanding of the daily lives of young pioneers, and an appreciation for the resilience, resourcefulness, and sense of adventure that characterized the remarkable period in American history.
Other Details
Supply List
All materials will be provided for the student.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2017
4.8
293reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
As an educator, my expertise stems from my educational background and continuous pursuit of knowledge. With a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Arts in History, I possess a solid foundation in the subject matter. Additionally, my minor in Women's Studies and Humanities has provided me with a well-rounded perspective and a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. To stay current in my field, I actively engage in seminars and continuing education classes I have completed courses in Indigenous Studies, Westward Migration, and European Immigration, expanding my knowledge and awareness of historical events and their impacts. Moreover, I have sought professional development in specialized areas such as teaching Neurodivergent students, Social-Emotional Learning, and Waldorf methodologies, equipping me with effective strategies and approaches to support all learners in the classroom. My commitment to ongoing education ensures that I remain a dedicated and knowledgeable educator, ready to meet the evolving needs of my students.
As an inclusive education, I strive to create a classroom environment where all students feel valued and respected. I understand the importance of embracing diversity and promoting a sense of belonging for every student. By fostering an atmosphere of acceptance, I encourage students to express their unique perspectives and engage in meaningful discussions. I actively incorporate diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences into my lesson plans, ensuring that all students feel represented and included. By celebrating differences and promoting empathy, I aim to cultivate a learning community where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. Reviews
Live Group Class
$36
for 3 classes3x per week, 1 week
60 min
Completed by 266 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 7-11
3-10 learners per class
