This inquiry explores some of the dynamic changes occurring in the agriculture sector in North Dakota before 1900 through the investigation of the compelling question “Does19th century agriculture impact the state’s modern 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 early economy and (2) students will benefit from understanding how these economic activities influenced and developed into North Dakota’s modern economy. While progressing through the inquiry, students will analyze the changes occurring in the ag sector and speculate future scenarios for the state. In doing so, students can better understand the impact of market forces on their own career choices.
This inquiry is expected to take four 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.
- Pioneer Farms Document Set
- Welk Farmstead State Historic Site
- Ranching Document Set
- Theodore Roosevelt as a Naturalist and Badlands Rancher
- Chateau de Mores State Historic Site
- Dawes Act
Understand: Find an example of a modern development in agriculture that has resulted in a variety of consequences for humans.
Assess: Determine the intended and unintended consequences of the innovation identified.
Act: Take the poster you created to present to your class and use it to create an exhibit to present to your community during a history fair.