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.

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. 

Homework Offered
Assessments Offered
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. 
Grades Offered