Exploros | The Pacific Countries: History and Its Influence

The Pacific Countries: History and Its Influence

Students explore the early history of Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific islands, including the early inhabitants and how they got there. Then they learn about the colonization that begin in 1788 and the later decolonization. They study the history of immigration throughout Australia's history. Then they read and create a timeline of New Zealand history. Finally, they research one event and explain its importance.

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.

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