This inquiry explores some of the dynamic changes occurring in the agriculture sector in North Dakota since 1900 through the investigation of the compelling question “How does agriculture in North Dakota impact a global economy?” The importance of understanding farming and ranching in this inquiry is twofold: (1) students should be able to understand some of the changes that influenced the state’s modern economy and (2) students will benefit from understanding how these economic activities influence market forces and their own career choices. While progressing through the inquiry, students will analyze the changes occurring in the ag sector and speculate future scenarios for the state.
This inquiry is expected to take two class periods; however, teachers are encouraged to adapt the inquiry to meet the needs and interests of their students and the amount of time they have available.
- Great Depression and Drought Document Set
- United Farmers League Document Set
- Modernizing North Dakota’s Farms Document Set
- Prosperity Rides on Rubber Tires
- Custom Combining
- ND Highway Trunk Maps 1924
Understand: Identify a new technology of your time that you think has historic importance. Outline the significance (social, political, and/or economic) that technology has had. How will it change your life? Will it continue to be important in the future? What further changes can be expected?
Assess: Determine the intended and unintended consequences of the innovation identified.
Act: Take the poster you created to present to your class and use your research to create a documentary. Present the documentary to your community during a history fair.