BACKGROUND
In the 1800's Easterners were fascinated with the 'Wild' West. They loved to read stories about the vast "seas of grasses", the American Indians, the settlers, and especially anything about the buffalo. Take a trip back in time...and join a team of journalists to research and write a newspaper story for the New York Times. Newspapers were very important in 19th century.
Before you decide on your story, take time to read the Guide to 19th century newspapers and find out why your job will be so important. Can you find the New York Times in the selection of Sample front pages? When you are ready, choose an assignment below to receive your telegram from the editors desk!
NOTE: review the project description and rubric as you go about your research. It will help you to keep focused and plan your project based on teamwork.
ASSIGNMENTS:
Explore the Oxcart Trails: Learn about the Metis fur trappers and life along the oxcart trails in the Red River Valley, or choose another tribe and follow their movements and history as Europeans moved in to farm the prairie.
Visiting Artists: Interview an artist traveling into the western waterways capturing images and life of the Dakota Territory.
Westward Expansion: Follow a homesteader as he or she finds a claim to stake.
Investigate Prairie Wildlife: Report on the plants and animals living in the Red River Valley's tall grass prairies. Back east people are very interested in the large herds and beautiful birds.
Buffalo Commons: Read what the Poppers have to say about the future of the Great Plains TODAY. Then write a contemporary story responding to their suggestion outlined in their Buffalo Commons proposal.
Regional: Do you live in North Dakota? Here are some suggested assignments just for you! If you don't live in North Dakota, use these assignments as a guide for your region; just substitute specific locations and events listed here to those found or experienced in your area.
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