World History teaching resources for the high school classroom: lesson plans, worksheets, quizzes and simulation games for KS3, IGCSE, IB and A-Level teachers.

The American Revolution

As a prelude to the main study of the American West, students can study the causes of the American Revolution using this decision-making simulation:

The Wild West: Cowboys and Indians, Outlaws and Sheriffs!

At the start of the 1800s, the USA was just thirteen British colonies on the East Coast of North America. But for the rest of the century, these settlers headed Westwards to take over the entire continent in a process of "Westward Expansion", and the dangers they faced created the legend of the "Wild West".

This study topic is a source of endless fascination for students and a great addition to any school's History scheme of work!

Introduction and Overview

"Those Americans who moved Westwards often made their living by farming cattle and became known as 'Cowboys'. They often found themselves at risk of attack from 'Indians' (Native Americans) alarmed at the loss of their tribal homelands, and from Mexicans who resented the loss of lands like Texas to the United States. The new towns established in this violent, lawless region attracted outlaws, bandits and robbers, who in turn were kept under control by local 'sheriffs'.

Timeline Analysis

"Read through the first three events in this detailed timeline of Western expansion together as a class. Next, find one associated image for the cell in the right-hand column and put a caption underneath each picture explaining what it shows. Repeat this process for the remaining batches of events, then answer the questions which follow".

Online Simulation: Fame and Fortune - A Wild West Adventure! | Factual Test

In this major online simulation, which can be played over several lessons (my students took three hours), students take on the role of a pioneer eager to find fame and fortune by heading into the "Wild West". By completing a detailed worksheet as they proceed, and completing the follow-up tasks within it, they will learn an immense amount about the main people and events and form their opinion on such issues as the treatment of Native Americans.

Who were the greatest characters of the Wild West?

I use this as an extension activity for students who complete the simulation within the three hours which I allocate to it. Students have to research various characters and then choose one "Cowboy", one "Cowgirl" and one Native American who will be included in their film proposal (see next worksheet).

Can you design your own Western Movie / Theme Park / Boardgame?

To consolidate knowledge, students convert what they have learned into one of three projects, outlined here in detail.