It is 1840 and you have been assigned by the government to travel with three other pioneers. Together, you will be working to study different aspects of trail: the route, the land, the people, and tactics of survival. As you research information, you will contribute to the final report, which will be sent to Washington, D.C., after you have completed The Oregon Trail. You will use written descriptions, drawings, interviews, and photographs as you add to the final report. Before beginning your adventures, it is important to learn more about The Oregon Trail.

Keep in mind that the sites you will be visiting have been designed for the general public, and not just for students.  Some of the reading may challenge you. Don't be discouraged!  If you need help with any new words that you come across, look up the meanings in this Student Dictionary. Clicking on this link will bring up the dictionary in a new window.
 
 

Phase 1 - Background: Something for Everyone

• Oregon Trail 101- You can learn a great deal from this site which tackles many frequently asked questions about the Oregon Trail. Learn where The Oregon Trail begins and ends, why people want to use The Oregon Trail and what the adventure is like!
• Oregon Trail Chronology: 1841-1866- What is going on around the time when you are making your way westward on the trail? To find out, explore this site!
• Oregon Trail Diaries- As an emigrant, you see many people keeping diaries about the many adventures they have on the Oregon Trail. Take a look at some of the ones highlighted on this web site to learn more about the experiences of others.
• The Letters and Journals of Narcissa Whitman- You have the honor of reading the journals of Narcissa Whitman, a famous emigrant who traveled the Oregon Trail. Pick a few of her entries to read to help you understand what it was like to be in her place.
• Oregon Trail History: Frequently Asked Questions- This site provides random information about the Oregon Trail, including how many people died while making the trip, what an ox is, and what kind of supplies travelers brought with them.
• Oregon Trail History: Artifact Collection- Take a look at some artifacts of the Oregon Trail. By seeing what treasures emigrants take with them, your understanding of the great migration will be improved!
• Fantastic Facts About the Oregon Trail- On the trail you will see some strange and unusual sites! Learn more about some specific incidents that would shock people back east.

Phase 2 - Looking Deeper from Different Perspectives

After you have decided which role you will represent, read through the files linked to your role. If you print out the files, underline the passages that you feel are the most important. If you look at the files on the computer, copy sections you feel are important by dragging the mouse across the passage and copying / pasting it into a word processor or other writing software. Remember to write down or copy/paste the URL of the file you take the passage from so you can quickly go back to it if you need to prove your point.

Upon completing your individual research, be prepared to focus on the major task, combining what you have learned to present to those who have not yet experienced the wonders of the Oregon Trail. To learn more about the responsibilities of individual roles, click on the respective names below.

Phase 3 - Debating, Discussing, and Reaching Consensus