Take your students on a virtual field trip to learn about the Dust Bowl. Using a combination of informational text, Google Earth exploration, videos, and visuals, your students will learn about the Dust Bowl from multiple perspectives.
 
This virtual field trip covers:
:: What was the Dust Bowl?
:: The Homestead Act of 1862
:: Impact on Native Americans
:: Land Changes
:: Homesteading
:: Changes to Farming Practices
:: Black Blizzards
:: Lives of Homesteaders
:: Making a Choice
:: Soil Conservation Service
:: Dust Everywhere
:: Impact on Livestock and Animals
:: Black Sunday personal accounts
:: Drought and Land Recovery
:: Shelterbelt Project
:: Recovering from the Dust Bowl
 
This Virtual Field Trip Includes:
:: Informational Text (build background knowledge)
:: Response Questions (EDITABLE)
:: Video Links (YouTube)
:: Google Earth 360-degree exploration
:: Grading Rubric
:: Everything is set up in Google Slides & ready to go!
 
SEE PREVIEW FOR MORE DETAILS
 
How it Works:
This virtual field trip can be conducted teacher-led or shared with students through Google Classroom as an independent assignment. Everything is set up for you. This resource is LOW PREP and would even make great sub plans. Student directions are found within the lesson, and direct links are included to specific videos and Google Earth links. All work is completed digitally. No printing is necessary.
 
Structure:
This virtual field trip is structured. This means that the informational text and links are meaningful and are meant to lead students to think critically as they respond to the questions throughout the virtual field trip. This is also a great way to keep students accountable as they learn and explore. All response questions are EDITABLE so that you can tailor them to your class needs. Students complete this activity in edit mode of Google Slides.
 
Standards Alignment:
:: Common Core Standards for Reading Informational Text
:: Washington Social Studies Standards
:: Can crosswalk to many different standards
 
Grading Rubric:
A grading rubric is included which assesses: accuracy, thoroughness, validity, and writing conventions. Answers will vary throughout, as students are recording their observations and findings.
 
Technology:
Please note that video clips are included within the activity. You will want to make sure you have access to the YouTube links before starting this activity. You will also want to ensure you have Google Earth downloaded on devices.
 
If you have questions, feel free to reach out prior to purchasing. Looking for another virtual field trip that you don’t see? Let me know! I can be reached directly by email at: michellemcdonald9515@gmail.com
 
Thank you!
Michelle McDonald, B.A.E.
Social Studies Education, K-12
Elementary Education K-8