This unit plan examines the political, economic, and cultural motives for Westward Expansion over six days. Students will analyze the removal of Native Americans, how settlers' lives changed in the West, and the concept of Manifest Destiny. They will also study the trails used by those moving West and how the California Gold Rush impacted the economy. Throughout, students will complete a WebQuest to further research the reasons for and results of Westward Expansion, presenting their findings at the end.

1. Westward Expansion Unit Plan Abstract
My unit plan is on the economic, political, and cultural motives of Westward Expansion.
Throughout the course of the six day unit, my students will look at political reasons for
Westward Expansion such as the removal of Native Americans to the west. They will also take a
look at how the settlers’ lives were changed by moving west and why they chose to move west.
Students will also understand the concept of Manifest Destiny and its effect on Westward
Expansion. Students will also look at the trails taken by those who moved west and how the
California Gold Rush affected the economic state of those who moved to the west in order to
claim their stake in gold. Students will work throughout the entire unit on a WebQuest that will
analyze further the motives and reasons for the idea of Westward Expansion. At the end of the
six day unit, each group will present their research in any way they choose. At the close of the
six day unit, the students should understand the reasons behind Westward Expansion, how it
affected all who were involved, and how it shaped the United States as we know it today.