In social studies we have just finished studying chapter 11, and started chapter 12 on April 5, 2000. Chapter 12 deals with the industrial revolution and westward expansion. In addition to the regular book work, I have assigned a project. The students are allowed to pick from a list of possible choices. The students are able to work in groups, as long as they ask me, and tell me their topic and each participants part in the project. The due date for the projects is April 24, 2000. I know this is right after Easter, but the students have had plenty of time to work on the project.

1. Write a newspaper article on a topic that was popular in this time period. Ideas may include:

• Opening of a new factory
  
• Erie Canal
  
• National Road
  
• Trail of Tears

2. Construct a timeline of the events in chapter 11 and 12 and place in hallway.

3.Prepare a report on transportation of the time period. Some suggestions are:

• Steam engines
  
• Covered Wagons

4. Have a news broadcast. This would need to be recorded and shown to the class. The broadcast should take the feel as though the reporter is really at one of the locations. Including having interviews with people who are at these places. Some suggestions are:

• From the Alamo
  
• From the Trail of Tears
  
• A Factory opening

5. Research any of the people we studied in chapter 11 or 12.

6. Write a few journal entries as if you were a child on the Oregon Trail include:

• Hardships you encounter
  
• What your day is like
  
• What you do to keep busy on the trail
  
• Any other important information