Lewis and Clark for Kids: Their Journey of Discovery with 21 Activities (For Kids series)
For Kids Series
on Goodreads (52)
What’s inside...
An account of the Lewis and Clark expedition sent by President Jefferson to explore the land acquired in the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, including related activities. It follows Meriwether Lewis and William Clark’s Corps of Discovery as they navigate the muddy Missouri River and embark on a grand adventure. The activity book provides a background of the vast North American continent, detailing President Jefferson’s vision for the exploratory mission and the expedition's challenges and triumphs. It includes 21 activities that illustrate the Native American tribes encountered, the new plants and animals discovered, and the camping and navigating techniques used. Additionally, a glossary of terms, along with listings of Lewis and Clark sites, museums, and related websites, are provided to enrich the learning experience.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-12
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Lewis and Clark to explore new territories?
How would you feel if you were on a journey like theirs? What would be exciting or challenging?
Why do you think teamwork was important for Lewis and Clark’s expedition?
What would you have done differently if you were leading the exploration?
How do the activities in the book help you understand the journey of Lewis and Clark better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the shoes of Lewis and Clark, fostering empathy and interest in historical events.
Discuss the importance of curiosity and courage in exploring the unknown, relating it to personal experiences of trying new activities or making new friends.
Use maps or create a timeline together to visually navigate through the journey as you read, enhancing comprehension and engagement.
Highlight the collaboration between the diverse team members of the expedition, promoting values of teamwork and respect for different skills and backgrounds.
After reading, consider engaging in one of the 21 activities provided in the book together to reinforce learning through hands-on experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and resilience
Explanation: The story showcases the challenging journey of Lewis and Clark, highlighting their ability to persist despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of not giving up in the face of obstacles, whether it be in their studies, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout their expedition, Lewis and Clark relied on teamwork, working closely with each other and with their team, which was essential for their success.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to value and practice teamwork in group projects at school or in team sports.
Example Lesson: Cultural respect and understanding
Explanation: The book details the interactions between the explorers and the Native American tribes they encountered, emphasizing respectful and meaningful exchanges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences and understand the importance of communication and respect in multicultural interactions.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: Lewis and Clark's journey was driven by a deep sense of curiosity and the desire to explore the unknown, demonstrating the value of learning and discovery.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be curious about the world around them and to engage in explorative learning to discover new interests and passions.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The book presents various challenges that the expedition had to overcome using ingenious and practical solutions.
Real-World Application: This highlights for children how to approach problems creatively and effectively, fostering critical thinking skills applicable in everyday situations.