Exploros | The Pacific Countries: Geographic Passport

The Pacific Countries: Geographic Passport

Students are introduced to the physical geography of the Pacific Countries, or Oceania. They learn about the various types of islands in the region and the role that tectonics has played in creating the physical features of the region. They learn about the flora and the fauna as well as the climate. Then they explore the Great Barrier Reef and research one of the threats to the reef. Finally, they describe what part of Oceania they would like to visit and explain why.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

Overview

In this experience, students learn about the Homestead Act of 1862. They explore the difficulties faced by the farmers who received the grants. They also examine the act’s impact on westward expansion and immigration.

Objectives:

Summarize the massive westward migration following the Homestead Act.
Identify challenges western farmers faced and the alliances created to improve conditions.

In this experience, you will learn about the Homestead Act of 1862.

The Hutchinson Family Singers were a popular American singing group in the mid-1800s. They sang about controversial subjects such as abolition, women’s rights, and worker’s rights.

Read the following song lyrics from one of their songs.

"Come along, come along, make no delay,

Come from every nation, come from every way,

Our lands they are broad enough, have no alarm

For Uncle Sam is rich enough to give us all a farm."

Explain what you think this song is about.

Post your answer

Students may suggest that the song is about immigration, westward expansion, or the desire to own land. All these answers are correct.

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.