Students often love to focus on how the United States grew over time. For instance, they are always interested in learning how cars evolved. Likewise, they love to see how businesses grew into well-known companies. However, students often do not realize how these progressions led to issues with the environment, labor laws, and worker compensation. Therefore, the Defining Progressivism Lesson is the perfect way for students to realize the ups and downs that occurred during American history.
Defining Progressivism Lesson
When someone hears the term “Progressivism,” they often think of advancements and improvements. While it is a good term to help generalize a rather scattered era of American history, it is crucial that students understand the flaws of the term. Therefore, this assignment does that! Students will explore different people, events, and laws considered progressive but not consistent in our conception of Progressivism.
Lesson Format
Teachers should use this lesson at the beginning of the Progressivism unit. Students will want this information before diving into this era.
Students will begin by discussing what Progressivism means concerning American history. Specifically, they will consult different definitions to see exactly why this is a slippery term. This will help them understand that while industrialization, immigration, and urbanization transformed the United States, these aspects also brought problems.
Teachers will divide students into eight groups. Then, students will learn about their assigned topic by reading primary sources. After reading, they will answer an assigned question on their own. After all group members finish, they will discuss their answers. Groups will then share their responses. Lastly, the class will discuss the “other side” using notes provided in the resource. Essentially, students need to evaluate each example and determine if the person or idea was really progressive.
Components
There are so many options to pick from when exploring Progressivism. This lesson focuses on Jane Addams and her work assisting women and children workers. Additionally, it focuses on William Jennings Bryan and the causes he focused on, such as prohibition and the infallibility of the Bible. Students will also evaluate the work of Theodore Roosevelt, Ida B. Wells Barnett, Louis Brandeis, and Robert Lafollette. In addition to people, students will look into Eugenics. Honestly, students will show much growth in evaluating different people and their actions through primary sources.
Resource Benefits
Whenever purchasing my resources, there are many added benefits. One of the most important ones involves all of the FREE updates. This is needed as learning strategies evolve each year.
Additionally, I know how stressed teachers are. There are so many daily challenges and little time to get everything done. Therefore, lesson plans are ready to go. Additionally, all of the materials are pre-organized into folders. This means you will not have to spend time searching for what you need. All videos and links required are within the presentation for easy planning. If you ever do have any questions, you can also reach out to me for email support.
Students will love the Defining Progressivism Lesson! They will evaluate sources, people, and ideas to make informed opinions about this critical time in history. Best of all, students will be working on academics and collaboration at the same time.
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