Grade 3 Lesson at a Glance: Chapter 8, Lesson 1

Houghton Mifflin Social Studies
From Sea to Shining Sea

Lesson at a Glance
Chapter 8, Lesson 1: The Wilderness Road (pp. 134-137)

The Big Idea
Framework Concept: Interconnectedness The Wilderness Road made it possible for pioneers to settle in Kentucky.

Begin by discussing what the wilderness was like in pioneer times. Talk about the dangers that might have faced settlers who wanted to travel through the wilderness. Ask students to tell what they know about Daniel Boone and how he helped pioneers.

Have students locate Kentucky and Virginia on a map. Explain that in the 1700's, Kentucky was a wilderness. Then Daniel Boone blazed a trail called the Wilderness Road that connected east coast settlements with Kentucky. With a pointer, show students the routes of the Wilderness Road.

Lesson Outline
Use the Lesson Outline to preview the content of the lesson. You may wish to print it for your students as a guide during reading.

Check for Understanding

Have the class generate a list of questions to ask the famous pioneer, Daniel Boone. Then ask students to take turns role-playing the character of Boone to answer the questions.
Have students draw a picture of a family who is traveling to Kentucky on the Wilderness Road. Remind them to include the details that show the hardships they encountered.

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