This week, our study of American history has centered around the westward expansion of the United States, with a special focus on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The students have been learning about the challenges and triumphs of early American explorers who ventured into the unknown territories of the western United States in the early 1800s.

A particularly poignant part of our study has been reading about York, the enslaved man who accompanied Meriwether Lewis and William Clark on their expedition. York’s contributions, often overlooked in traditional history books, were crucial to the success of the journey.

We’ve also started an exciting hands-on historical simulation: the Oregon Trail Game. This interactive activity will help the students step into the shoes of emigrants traveling westward in the mid-1800s, giving them a chance to experience the hardships, triumphs, and decisions that families faced during their arduous journey across the American frontier.

To bring the Oregon Trail simulation to life, we’ve split the students into family groups. Each group has chosen historical names and crafted realistic background stories for their families. They’ve imagined the life of emigrants in the 1800s, complete with details about the people, their professions, and why they decided to leave their homes. In the weeks to come, these families will face decisions based on historical events—choosing when to stop for rest, what supplies to bring, and how to overcome unexpected challenges. We hope this immersive experience will deepen their understanding of history and help them connect with the lives of those who lived during this time.