SMART TASK: A history puzzle – Opening up of the Western frontier by the railroads. A history mystery

As you know, the emphasis of this topic changes in September 2016 to include more on the pre-1840 period, the Civil War and period of Reconstruction. Probably one of the most innovative features of this section on teaching American West history is the use of US sources and teaching materials. Close co-operation with academic institutions in the USA has enabled unfamiliar sources to be used in imaginative ways. You will find lessons using de Bono’s Thinking Hats on the coming of the railroad, detailed analysis of one painting on manifest destiny and a kinaesthetic approach to Moving West – all with planning and the resources you need.