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Pacing

10 Estimated Instructional Days; 6 days optional extension lessons; 3 days optional review lessons prior to assessment.

Just the Basics: To meet the TEKS requirements while minimizing the amount of time spent in the unit, educators can focus solely on the following lessons (Approximately 6 - 7 class periods)

  1. The Big Picture (1 period)
  2. Vocabulary (2 periods)
  3. What’s the Story? (1-2 periods)
  4. U.S. - Mexico War (1 period)
  5. Early Statehood (1 period)

Contents

Era Overview

The annexation of Texas in 1845 led directly to the U.S.-Mexico War (1846-48), during which Texas served as the staging ground for U.S. armies that invaded both northern and central Mexico. When the war ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, the United States took control of a massive swath of land between Texas and California (known as the Mexican Cession) that created the modern U.S.-Mexico border and ignited a political feud between Northerners and Southerners over whether slavery would be allowed to expand into these new western territories

During the twelve years that followed, American settlers poured into Texas. The population of Texas expanded from 212,000 in 1850 to more than 600,000 by 1860. Because the vast majority of these new Texans came from the southern United States, both cotton production and slavery also expanded dramatically. Cotton farming, the mainstay of the Texas economy, boomed: in 1849, Texans exported 58,000 bales of cotton; in 1860, Texans exported 430,000 bales. The enslaved African American population in the state also expanded from 58,000 in 1850 to more than 182,000 by 1860.

Texas, as a result, became increasingly involved in national debates over the future of slavery within the United States. Throughout the 1850s, Texan political leaders aligned themselves with the Deep South states that opposed efforts by the Republican Party and Northern politicians to stop the westward expansion of American slavery. Political turmoil over slavery and westward expansion during the 1850s ultimately led to the secession crisis of 1860-61, and the Civil War that followed. In February 1861, Anglo-Texans voted to leave the United States and soon thereafter joined the Confederate States of America.

Unit Level Downloads (English)

Other Units

Republic of Texas Civil War

Lessons

Most lessons contain downloadable and printable documents, activities, and other resources to aid in classroom instruction. Lesson materials are available in multiple formats and typically contain variations based on learning needs.

Early Statehood

The Big Picture

In this one-day lesson, students will make observations, inferences, and predictions about the unit based on a primary source image. Students will read a passage examining the key events, major themes, and defining characteristics of the Early Statehood era of Texas history. Students will demonstrate cause-and-effect relationships between key events of the era.

Mexico City Mexican Cession Plantation agriculture Cotton Slavery Immigration Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo Texas Annexation The U.S. – Mexico War Westward expansion Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will use answer bank nine response options identify information believe true Texas era Early Statehood. Students use prior knowledge previous unit accomplish task. In exit ticket, students will students complete matching activity connecting events reading information best describes significant effects event. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Grade Level Work In printable assignment, students will read passage written grade-level appropriate Lexile Level divided smaller chunks. Students complete chart demonstrating cause-and-effect relationship significant events reading. The Cause-and-Effect activity integrated throughout reading provide guidance students work identify necessary information required complete portions chart. Foundation Work In printable assignment, students will read passage written grade-level appropriate Lexile Level key information presented bold font. The reading divided smaller chunks. Students complete chart demonstrating cause-and-effect relationship significant events reading. The Cause-and-Effect activity integrated throughout reading provide guidance students work identify necessary information required complete portions chart. Foundations work provides two response options students choose identifying correct cause effect event. Advanced Work In printable assignment, students read passage written advanced Lexile level. After reading, students complete chart demonstrating cause-and-effect relationships events reading. There five causes effects given, student will fill missing information. There one additional row students will create cause effect relationship based events reading.
Unit Plan # 1 45-60 min none 71A 71B 74C 710B 720B 721A
Early Statehood

How Do We Know What We Know?

In this one-day lesson, students will use a set of primary source materials from a variety of viewpoints including government documents, a congressional speech, newspaper articles, and travel memoirs to examine significant events and topics related to Texas history during the era of Early Statehood.

Chief Buffalo Hump Frederic Benjamin Page Sam Houston Robert S. Neighbors Theodore Laidley Veracruz Perote prison Fredericksburg Galveston San Antonio de Bexar New Braunfels Commerce Cotton U.S. – Mexico War Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will read four statements related major themes unit match statement likely made statement. The statements true primary source quotes, rather general statements representing points view average northerner, southern planter, Mexican citizen, Texas Indian western frontier. In exit ticket, students will choose list five major topics addressed lesson. They summarize one primary source material analyzed lesson demonstrate related chosen topic. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Grade Level Student Worksheet In printable assignment, students will read passage presented Lexile level appropriate average 7th grade reading level. Students identify major developments changes occurred Texas era selecting items list possibilities. Then, students choose five eleven primary source materials. They summarize main idea material identify material relates major themes topics addressed reading. Foundation Student Worksheet In printable assignment, students will read passage presented Lexile level appropriate average 7th grade reading level. Students identify major developments changes occurred Texas era selecting items list possibilities one answer option eliminated. Then students use chart provides summary eleven primary source materials. Students record number material beside correct summary identify major topic topics addressed material. Advanced Student Worksheet In printable assignment, students will read passage presented advanced Lexile level. Students restate summarize six eight significant events Early Statehood era reading passage. Students choose five eleven primary source materials record information material’s author, audience, main idea, material relates major themes topics addressed reading. Student work primarily short, constructed response questions. Primary Source Excerpts This printable material provides 11 primary source excerpts variety points view types sources. Students will analyze sources complete assignment.
Unit Plan # 2 45-60 min none 71A 74C 710B 710C 716A 720A 720B 720D 720E 722B
Early Statehood

Vocabulary

This two-day lesson presents unit vocabulary in short readings that provide the terms in the context of significant information from the unit. Students use the readings to complete vocabulary charts and take an optional vocabulary quiz.

The Mexican Cession The North The South California The Compromise of 1850 Secession The Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo The U.S.-Mexico War Sectionalism Popular Sovereignty Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will read short paragraph introducing vocabulary term “cede,” use context paragraph come conclusions word including part speech, potential positive, negative, neutral connotations, likely meaning. In exit ticket, students will use word bank different terms choose terms related major themes unit. They will highlight circle terms. Students create short, constructed response explaining chose one terms word bank. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Grade Level Worksheet In printable assignment, students will use six short readings containing vocabulary terms unit complete vocabulary chart. Students provide definition, example reading, visual representation term. Foundation Worksheet In printable assignment, students will use six short readings containing vocabulary terms unit complete vocabulary chart. Students choose multiple-choice answer options determine correct definition term create visual representation term. Advanced Worksheet In printable assignment, students will use six short readings containing vocabulary terms unit complete vocabulary chart. Students will provide definition, example reading, antonym, visual representation term, use complete sentence. Optional Grade Level Vocabulary Quiz In optional printable material, students assess understanding vocabulary terms unit. Students match vocabulary terms definitions, complete two short fill-in-the-blank sections using terms variations terms, use primary source excerpt vocabulary assistance answer two-part question based multi-part question type new 8th grade STAAR item types. Optional Foundation Vocabulary Quiz In optional, printable material, students assess understanding vocabulary terms unit. Students match vocabulary terms definitions, complete sentences using terms choosing correct option three possible choices, use primary source excerpt vocabulary assistance answer two-part question based multi-part question type new 8th grade STAAR item types. The questions one response option eliminated. Optional Advanced Vocabulary Quiz In printable assignment, students assess understanding vocabulary terms unit. Students will match vocabulary terms definitions, complete fill-in-the-blank section using terms variations terms, use primary source excerpt answer multiple-choice question two-part question based multi-part question type new 8th grade STAAR item types.
Unit Plan # 3 90-120 min none 74C 720A 720B 722A
Early Statehood

What's the Story?

In this one- to two-day lesson, students will read six short passages to identify and explain the causes, effects, details, and significance of key events of the era of early Texas statehood.

James K. Polk Zachary Taylor Henry Clay John Brown Abraham Lincoln Dred Scott Mexican Cession The North The South Rio Grande Nueces River California Mexico Utah New Mexico Missouri Kansas Harper’s Ferry, Virginia South Carolina Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo Missouri Compromise Compromise of 1850 Kansas-Nebraska Act Texas Annexation U.S. – Mexico War California Gold Rush California statehood Dred Scott Case John Brown’s Raid on Harper’s Ferry Election of 1860 Secession of South Carolina Westward expansion Sectionalism Secession Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will make observations primary source map United States territories 1848-54. Students identify similarities and/or differences observe map compared know contemporary maps United States. In exit ticket, students will use map match locations five territories regions referenced readings best description location, including Mexican Cession, Mexico, Unorganized U.S. territory, slave states, free states. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Grade Level Work In printable assignment, students will create short, constructed responses record date/dates timeframe, key information readings. They choose two options provided accurate description significance topic. Foundation Work In printable assignment, students will complete chart choosing two options provided accurate description significance topic. Students choose 2 correct pieces information related event 3 possible answers. Advanced Work In printable assignment, students will create short, constructed responses complete timeline recording date/dates timeframe, key details, significance events described reading. Grade Level Readings This printable material provides set six brief readings key events early Texas statehood era. The grade level readings written grade-level appropriate Lexile level. Foundations Readings This printable material provides set six brief readings key events early Texas statehood era. The foundations level readings written grade-level appropriate Lexile level include key information bold lettering literacy support. Advanced Readings This printable material provides set six brief readings key events early Texas statehood era. The advanced readings written advanced Lexile level challenging academic vocabulary sentence phrasing.
Unit Plan # 4 45-90 min none 71A 71B 74C 716A 720B
Early Statehood

Who's Who of the Early Texas

In this one or multi-day optional extension lesson, students will read passages about key people of the Early Statehood era to identify and summarize each person’s significance to the era. This lesson includes multiple ways to interact with the materials including biographical fact sheets, a dinner party activity, “I have / Who has” and student worksheets.

John “Jack” Coffee Hays James Pinckney Henderson Benjamin McCulloch Santos Benavides Chief Potsanaquahip Buffalo Hump José Antonio Navarro Sarah A. Bowman San Jacinto “Cinte” Lewis Sam Houston Thomas Jefferson Rusk Cynthia Ann Parker Peta Nocona Quanah Parker Robert S. Neighbors Juan Cortina Zachary Taylor Texas Rangers Comanches Meusebach – Comanche Treaty Council Springs Treaty Plantations Slavery Compromise of 1850 Reservations Council House Fight U.S. – Mexico War Battle of Monterrey Battle of Buena Vista Linnville Raid Victoria Raid Bombardment of Fort Brown Cortina Wars Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will choose one six different points view present Texas Early Statehood including write short “day-in-the-life” journal entry chosen point view. In exit ticket, students will choose two people day’s lesson determine allies opponents era Early Statehood. Students justify claim based information readings. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Grade Level Work In printable assignment, students will use readings record important information person including information background from, role Early Statehood, one three significant facts achievements. Foundation Work In printable assignment, students will use readings record important information person including role Early Statehood one two significant facts achievements. Advanced Work In printable assignment, students will use readings record important information person including from, interesting significant background information, role Early Statehood, three significant facts achievements. Grade Level Readings This printable set readings written grade level 13 significant people Early Texas Statehood era. Readings written grade-level appropriate Lexile level. Foundation Readings This printable set readings written grade level 13 significant people Republic Texas era. Readings written grade level appropriate Lexile level significant terms key information presented bold lettering. Advanced Readings This printable set readings written grade level 13 significant people Republic Texas era. I / Who Has? This printable activity set clue cards significant person readings. Students must determine person based clues given. It appropriate levels. This activity meant completed together class take approximately 30 - 45 minutes. Dinner Party Activity In printable assignment, students will choose 4 people lesson invite fictional dinner. Students will explain choices complete several short activities based points view chosen guests, including explaining agreements disagreements might occur dinner, guest might respond series questions, dialogue guests. It appropriate levels can shortened accommodate needs diverse learners. These activities can assigned altogether (approximately 45 – 60 minutes), activity can shortened assigning one activities (20 - 30 minutes.) Biographical Fact Sheet In printable assignment, students examine one specific person Who’s Who readings record significant information reading. It appropriate levels. (Approximately 45 – 60 minutes.)
Extension 45-180 min none 74C 716A 720B 720D 720E
Early Statehood

The U.S.-Mexico War Guided Notes

In this one-day lesson, students will examine the causes, key events, effects, and significance of the U.S.-Mexico War and complete a guided note-taking worksheet to record key information from a slideshow presentation.

James K. Polk John “Jack” Coffee Hays Mexican Cession Mexico City Veracruz Palo Alto, Mexico Buena Vista, Mexico The Treaty of Guadalupe - Hidalgo The Battle of Palo Alto The Battle of Buena Vista The Capture of Mexico City Westward expansion Manifest Destiny Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will Students make observations artwork titled, “General Scott’s Grand Entry City Mexico” depicting American victory end U.S.-Mexico War. Students will make inferences information likely see lesson based observations. In exit ticket, students will Students complete graphic organizer briefly explaining significant causes effects U.S.-Mexico War based notes lesson. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Grade Level Worksheet In printable assignment, students will complete guided notes filling required information worksheets. Grade level work provides information slideshow requiring students fill remainder key information. Foundation Worksheet In printable assignment, students will complete guided notes filling blank key word words, circling highlighting correct information three possible options, crossing incorrect information. This work requires significantly less writing. Advanced Worksheet In printable assignment, students will complete guided notes writing information slides worksheet. Students can encouraged paraphrase restate information words increase retention comprehension.
Unit Plan # 5 45-60 min none 74C 720A 720B 720C 721A
Early Statehood

Early Statehood

In this one-day lesson, students will examine the major developments and changes that occurred in Texas from 1845 to 1860 during the Early Statehood era. Topics including population growth, increased immigration, conflicts with frontier Indians, and the Compromise of 1850.

John Meusebach William J. Worth Robert S. Neighbors Henry Clay Mississippi Alabama Galveston Germany Poland France Great Britain New Braunfels Fredericksburg Boerne Gruene Polonia Cestohowa Falls City Panna Maria Slovakia Scandinavia Austria Great Plains Brazos River Mexican Cession Compromise of 1850 Fugitive Slave Act Plantations Cotton Immigration Indian Reservations Forts Meusebach – Comanche Treaty The Compromise of 1850 Popular Sovereignty Westward expansion Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will make observations map 1858 borders Texas established Treaty Guadalupe. The territory Texas ceded U.S. Compromise 1850 shaded stripes. Students asked make inferences predictions lesson based observations map. In exit ticket, students will read seven statements determine statements true Early Statehood era. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Grade Level Worksheet In printable assignment, students will read four passages grade level appropriate Lexile level 7th grade. Questions accompanying reading include multiple-choice, multi-select, short, constructed response questions. Foundation Worksheet In printable assignment, students will read four passages grade level appropriate Lexile level 7th grade key information presented bold literacy support. Questions accompanying reading include multiple-choice multi-select questions one answer option eliminated, short, constructed response questions sentence stems response options provided. Advanced Worksheet In printable assignment, students will read four passages higher Lexile level, includes challenging vocabulary complex sentence structures. Questions accompanying reading short, constructed response questions.
Unit Plan # 6 45-60 min none 74C 710A 710B 718B 718C 720B 720C
Early Statehood

Population & Settlement Extension

In this optional one-day extension lesson, students will take part in a stations activity, analyzing a set of five primary and secondary source materials including maps, graphs, charts, and artifacts to draw conclusions about the effects of population and settlement developments in Texas from 1845 to 1860.

Germany Mexico Great Britain France Ireland Canada Alabama Tennessee Mississippi Georgia North Carolina South Carolina Louisiana Migration Immigration Population Culture Slavery Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will read excerpt interview German immigrant woman whose family immigrated Texas young girl. Students use information provided excerpt draw conclusions life Texas Early Statehood. In exit ticket, students will answer paper-adapted version 8th Grade Social Studies STAAR question type called Drag Drop, identifying three statements true developments population growth settlement Texas Early Statehood. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Stations This printable material provides set five stations related effects population settlement trends Texas early statehood. Grade Level Work In printable assignment, students will answer variety 8th grade Social Studies STAAR item type questions including multiple-choice, multi-select, paper-adapted version drag drop, adaptation match table grid, short constructed response sentence stems guide student responses. Foundation Work In printable assignment, students will answer variety 8th grade Social Studies STAAR item type questions including multiple-choice, multi-select, paper-adapted version drag drop, adaptation match table grid, short constructed response. Questions multiple answer options one option eliminated. Short constructed response questions provide sentence stems response options. Advanced Work In printable assignment, students will answer short constructed response questions station. Questions include interpreting, analyzing, making inferences, categorizing, drawing conclusions, determining purpose station materials.
Extension 45-180 min none 710B 718A 718B 718C 720A 720B 720C 720E 721A 721B
Early Statehood

The Compromise of 1850 Extension

In this one-day extension lesson, students will examine the events that caused the creation of the Compromise of 1850, identify the terms of the Compromise, and analyze how the terms affected the growing sectionalism in the United States.

Henry Clay Mexican Cession California Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo Compromise of 1850 U.S.-Mexico War California Gold Rush Westward expansion Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will make observations map depicting political borders United States passage Compromise 1850. Students draw conclusions map relate increasing sectional division slavery U.S. era. In exit ticket, students will complete paper-adapted version 8th grade Social Studies STAAR question type called Drag Drop match descriptions key events lesson name event description referring. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Grade Level Work In printable assignment, students will identify cause-and-effect relationships significant events led creation Compromise 1850. Students use graphic organizer explaining three significant events related U.S.-Mexico War answer questions information including multi-select, multiple choice, short constructed response sentence stem, create graphic organizer related California Gold Rush information already provided. Next, students use chart listing terms Compromise 1850 identify term benefited North, South, both. Students explain reasoning. Foundation Work In printable assignment, students will identify cause-and-effect relationships significant events led creation Compromise 1850. Students use graphic organizer explaining three significant events related U.S.-Mexico War answer questions information including multi-select multiple choice one answer choice eliminated, short-constructed response sentence stem response options provided. Then complete graphic organizer related California Gold Rush choosing correct multiple-choice option complete portion organizer. Next, students use chart listing terms Compromise 1850 identify term benefited North South. Students choose two options provided identify term benefited North, South, both. Advanced Work In printable assignment, students will identify cause-and-effect relationships significant events led creation Compromise 1850. Students use graphic organizer explaining three significant events related U.S.-Mexico War answer short, constructed response questions information, create graphic organizer related California Gold Rush. Next, students make claims terms Compromise 1850 assert whether term likely benefited supported North South, explaining reasoning. Finally, advanced work includes one-paragraph writing activity events discussed lesson contributed growth sectionalism United States.
Extension 45-180 min none 74C 716A 720A 720B 720C 720E
Early Statehood

Texas Today

In this one-day lesson, students use reading passages to research how various groups preserve their unique cultures and heritage in Texas today. People groups focused on in this lesson are American Indians, Tejanos, and descendants of German and Polish immigrants.

Comanche Lipan Apache Poles Germans Mexicans Tejanos American Indians Fredericksburg Gruene New Braunfels Panna Maria Our Lady of Czestochowa Roman Catholic Church St. Michael Catholic Church El Paso San Antonio Corpus Christi Amarillo Laredo Del Río Llano Estacado Padre Island Guadalupe Mountains Rio Grande Balcones Escarpment White Shaman Rock Shelter Caddo Mounds State Historic Site The German-Texas Heritage Society Mulled Wine Stollen Bratwurst Lederhosen The Polish Heritage Center at Panna Maria Cabbage rolls Blintz Kiszka The Polish-American Council of Texas Jan Karski Polish School of Dallas Szkola Polska im Mikolaja Kopernika school of Houston Jagoda Polish Dance Ensemble Wawel Dance Group Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center Ballet Folklorico Flamenco Mariachi The Intertribal Community Council of Texas Stickball Indigenous Cultures Institute Coahuiltecan Paxē Pilam Church of Tejas Texas Historical Commission Earth mounds Pottery Texas Tribal Buffalo Project American buffalo Oktoberfest Wurst Fest Tomball German Fest Polish Youth Day Houston Polish Festival Tejano Conjunto Festival Noche de Romance Cinefestival Teatro Salon Mexican Independence Fiestas Patrias International Parade Sacred Springs Powwow Immigration Cultural Preservation Heritage Language Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will make observations primary source image Tejana Ballet Folklorico dancers. Using observations, students infer different groups might preserve cultures Texas today. Students consider ways people might preserve cultures. In exit ticket, students will complete paragraph people preserve cultures Texas today filling blanks circling highlighting specific information sentence stems provided. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Stations This printable materials provides four reading passages different cultural groups Texas including American Indians, Mexican Texans (Tejanos), descendants German immigrants, descendants Polish immigrants. Each reading explains various ways culture worked preserve heritage time. These readings can printed uploaded learning platform like Google Classroom. Grade Level Work In printable assignment, students will record information chosen reading regarding group preserves culture, formulate question something learned, explain something like know about. Students option online research learn record information want know about. They can given additional points work. Finally, students exchange information classmates teaching classmates chosen group learning groups recording information based classmates’ research. Students speak least 3 classmates record least 3 pieces information cultural group. Foundation Work In printable assignment, students will record information chosen reading regarding group preserves culture completing sentence stems based possible responses. Students formulate question something learned, explain something like know about. Students option online research learn record information want know about. They can given additional points work. Finally, students exchange information classmates teaching classmates chosen group learning two groups. Students record information groups filling checklist sentence stems. Advanced Work In printable assignment, students will record information chosen reading regarding group preserves culture, formulate question something learned, explain something like know about, research online record find. Finally, students exchange information classmates teaching classmates chosen group learning groups recording information based classmates’ research. Students speak least 3 classmates record least 5 pieces information cultural group.
Unit Plan # 7 45 min none 710A 710B 718A 718B 718C 720B 722B
Early Statehood

Looking Ahead

In this one-day lesson, students will analyze a set of primary source materials discussing various topics related to sectionalism in the United States including secession, abolition, and slavery. Students will be able to identify and summarize different arguments and points of view related to each topic.

Sam Houston Abraham Lincoln Victoria The South Georgia Slavery Sovereignty Union 4th of July Abolition Secession Despotism Republicanism Free soil Nullification Revolution Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will observe map political boundaries United States 1854 showing sectional divisions North South, make inferences United States era based information provided map. In exit ticket, students will complete paragraph selecting one topic addressed day’s lesson providing two opposing viewpoints topic based primary source materials examined. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Primary Sources This printable material includes ten primary source excerpts Texas newspapers era presenting different viewpoints variety sectional topics including secession, union, states’ rights, abolition, slavery. Grade Level Work In printable assignment, students will analyze 6 10 primary source materials, choosing topic(s) addressed list options, identifying author’s point view supports, opposes, neutral toward topic, providing key words phrases material support claim. Foundation Work In printable assignment, students will analyze 4 10 primary source materials, choosing topic(s) addressed list options, completing sentence stem identify author’s point view topic, providing 2 4 key words excerpt support claim. Advanced Work In printable assignment, students will analyze 6 10 primary source materials, formulating short, constructed responses record information main ideas presented source author’s point view topic, providing textual evidence support claim.
Unit Plan # 8 45-60 min none 74C 75A 716A 720A 720B 720D 720E 720F 722D
Early Statehood

Study Guide and Flashcards

In this one-day lesson students will review key terms, concepts, and events of Early Statehood in preparation for a unit test. This lesson includes key term review fill-in-the-blank questions with a word bank, matching cause and effect statements, and practice test questions based on new STAAR item types from the 8th grade social studies test including Hot Spot, Short Constructed Response, Multi-Part, and a paper-adapted version of Drag and Drop.

Henry Clay Mexican Cession California The Treaty of Guadalupe – Hidalgo The Compromise of 1850 Westward expansion The U.S. – Mexico War Manifest Destiny Popular Sovereignty Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading, taking notes, answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Flash Cards This printable material presents way students work memory recall significance key terms, people, events matching activity. Cards cut kept sets students can match terms correct definitions descriptions. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will identify key concepts topics Early Statehood think likely Unit 7 test based graphic organizer providing nine possible topic options. In exit ticket, students will complete prompts graphic organizer self-assessing preparedness Unit 7 test. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. Student Work In printable assignment, students will use word bank identify definitions significance key terms Early Statehood. They will match cause-and-effect statements, answer practice test questions based new 8th grade social studies STAAR item types including Multi-Part, Match Table Grid, paper-adapted version Drag Drop, Hot Spot. Foundation Student Work In printable assignment, students will identify definitions significance key terms unit choosing three multiple choice answer options. They will match cause-and-effect statements two answer choices provided. They will answer practice test questions based new 8th grade social studies STAAR item types including Multi-Part, Match Table Grid, paper-adapted version Drag Drop, Hot Spot. Questions multiple-choice responses one answer option eliminated. Advanced Student Work In printable assignment, students will use word bank identify definitions significance key terms Early Statehood. Two word bank terms will used. They will match cause-and-effect statements, answer practice test questions based new 8th grade social studies STAAR item types including Multi-Part, Match Table Grid, paper-adapted version Drag Drop, Hot Spot, Short Constructed Response. Advanced work two additional practice test questions.
Review 45-60 min none 71A 74C 710B 720A 720B 720C 720E 721A 722A
Early Statehood

Review Mind Map

In this optional, one-day review lesson, students will create a visual representation of terms and concepts from the unit in a mind map. Students will be able to identify how information from the unit is connected by making connections between terms on a mind map.

Texas Rangers Comanches German Immigrants John Coffee Hays Mexican Cession Mexico Rio Grande California Oklahoma Fugitive Slave Law Compromise of 1850 Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Slavery Plantation agriculture Reservations Texas annexation U.S.-Mexico War California Gold Rush Westward expansion Manifest Destiny Popular Sovereignty Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow contains warm-up exercise, daily objective, "We will / I will" statements, essential question lesson. It guides class assignment providing larger versions images, visual representations directions, supports reading answering questions including sentence stems in-class responses. It concludes exit ticket. Warm-up Exit Ticket In printable warm-up / bell-ringer activity, students will complete graphic organizer small Mind Map using word bank terms will place believe fit best. In exit ticket, students will complete sentence stem summarizing main idea unit containing 2 blanks. They will choose best answers multiple choice options blank complete sentence. The Warm-up Exit Ticket document includes two warm-ups front page two exit tickets back page. This formatting reduces number copies needed, teachers will cut printed page half. Each student will receive half-page warm-up front exit back. **Suggested Materials Included:** - A large piece butcher paper group work - Blank pieces paper individual partner work - Markers colored pencils.
Review 45-60 min none 71A 74C 720B 720C 720E 721A 722A
Early Statehood

Review Bingo Game

In this optional, one-day review lesson, students will review key terms, ideas, people, places, events, and major themes of Early Statehood by playing Bingo using terms from the unit and clues about each term.

John Coffee Hays Comanches Germans Henry Clay James Polk Sam Houston Mexican Cession California Slavery Plantation Agriculture Sectionalism Compromise of 1850 Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Fugitive Slave Law Constitution Reservations U.S.-Mexico War California Gold Rush Annexation Popular Sovereignty Republicanism Federalism Manifest Destiny Lesson Plan, Teacher Guide, Primary Sources Used Downloadable/editable versions lesson plan, including step-by-step guide lesson. When applicable, list primary sources used lesson also included. Slideshow This ready-to-use classroom slideshow begins opening activity place warm-up. It provides rules unit terms playing Bingo review game. It finishes closing activity place exit ticket. Clue Sheet This material provides list terms students can include Bingo card. Each term three clues teacher can read class playing multiple rounds Bingo. Bingo Game Card This printable blank Bingo game card students will use fill terms random list provided slideshow. Students will use card take part Bingo review game.
Review 45-60 min none 71A 74C 710B 720B 722A

Maps

We've assembled the following list of maps that are applicable to the Early Statehood Unit.

Colton's New Map of the State of Texas

Colton's New Map of the State of Texas

"Full color atlas map by county of the state of Texas, showing county towns, post offices, forts, railroads, roads, and water bodies."

The Mexican Boundary from Texas to California

The Mexican Boundary from Texas to California

"Map shows major cities, military outposts, boundary lines for Old California, New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico. Includes dates in notes on boundary lines."

The Mexican-American War, first military engagements and incidents 9 April - 18 May 1846

The Mexican-American War, first military engagements and incidents 9 April - 18 May 1846

"Map shows troop movements and skirmish locations during the battle of Palo Alto. Includes legend and text about the Battle of Palo Alto."

United States, North America : Northern limit of slavery in Western States shown by Mason & Dixon's Line

United States, North America : Northern limit of slavery in Western States shown by Mason & Dixon's Line

"Map shows Mason and Dixon's line from California to Arkansas, state and territorial boundaries, major cities and towns, areas of Indian habitation, and notable geographical features; Washington, Oregon, Nebraska, Kansas, and Indian territories, New Mexico, Utah, Texas, and California."

Map of the United States and territories: showing the possessions and aggressions of the slave power

Map of the United States and territories: showing the possessions and aggressions of the slave power

"Map shows slave holding [dark shaded], non-slave holding [unshaded], and disputed territorries [grayed] parts of the United States during the decade before Civil War. The "Missouri Compromise" is indicated with a parallel line extending from the northern Arkansas border to California."

Map of the Butterfield Trail, Through Taylor County, Texas

Map of the Butterfield Trail, Through Taylor County, Texas

"Map of the Butterfield Trail mail route in Taylor County, Texas, in service between September 1858 and 1861, from St. Louis, Missouri, to San Francisco, California."

Colonists' and emigrants' route to Texas

Colonists' and emigrants' route to Texas

"Map shows pictorial representation of Texas cities, towns, and military posts in European fashion [as if built on a hill]; roads, railroads, steam ship lines into Galveston, "International Overland Route," and rivers; not to scale."

Videos

We provide videos for both continuing education and classroom use. Please see each video's descriptive page for related resources and details about accessibility and viewing options.

Preview of Early Texas Statehood Period
6 min. For Students

Preview of Early Texas Statehood Period

A short introductory video to the Early Statehood Unit. Includes worksheets and/or other attachments.

none none
Annexation and the Road to the U.S.-Mexico War
60 min. For Teachers

Annexation and the Road to the U.S.-Mexico War

The annexation of Texas, covering: Republic of Texas on the Brink, Playing the Annexation Game.

none none
The U.S.-Mexico War
45 min. For Teachers

The U.S.-Mexico War

The U.S.-Mexico War, covering: James K. Polk Gazes West, Polk Provokes a Fight, War in Northern and Central Mexico, Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, Mexican Cession.

none none
The Crisis of the 1850s
58 min. For Teachers

The Crisis of the 1850s

The 1850s in Texas, covering: Aftermath of U.S.-Mexican War, Slave Labor versus Free Labor, Compromise of 1850, Bleeding Kansas, Rise of the Republicans, Dred Scott Decision.

none none

More Resources

The following list of resources provide additional information to help you dive deeper into the context of the unit. Books are linked to OCLC WorldCat, allowing you find a copy in your nearest local library or to make a request for it using interlibrary loan.

  • General

  • website Results for Early Statehood in The Portal to Texas History

    Digital copies of primary sources and other documents from our about this time period contributed to The Portal to Texas History by institutional partners from across the State.