Erie Canal Web Quest

Introduction:
New York State canals

have made much history. They made possible the speedy development of the western part of New York State and have contributed to the successful development of the whole nation. Opened in 1825, the Erie Canal was the marvel of its day. The canal spurred the first great westward movement of American settlers and gave access to the rich land and resources to the west.

Task:
Your task will be to develop a Powerpoint presentation that explains why the completion of the Erie Canal was important. In this presentation, you will demonstrate your newfound knowledge of this important part of New York State history.

Process:

1. Your teacher will assign a partner for you to work with.

2. Now you are ready to begin! Use the Powerpoint Outline Page to guide your research.

3. Use the links provided at the bottom of this page to conduct research on the Erie Canal. Use this information to complete your Powerpoint presentation. Record your information (take notes) on loose leaf paper and keep all of your materials in your Social Studies folder. DO NOT take the folder home. Your partner must be able to continue the work even if you are absent from school.

4. After your research has been completed and approved by your teacher, you should start your storyboard(s). Some items from the outline may only have one slide (your title slide for example) or there may be as many as three or four per outline topic. As you create your storyboard, be writing down what you and your partner will be saying for each slide. Remember, Powerpoint presentations are not just slide shows- they are speeches with slides to support what you say.

5. After you have finished your storyboard and notes are completed, your should create your slides.

6. After you have competed your slides, you should practice to ensure that you are comfortable giving your presentation. Be able to pronounce all the words on your slides and note cards and be sure that you are using a clear voice that projects so we can hear you. Do not block your voice (your face) with paper or note cards. Face us (your audience)- it will help us pay attention and follow what you are saying.

Conclusion:
All good work needs to be shared. Your Erie Canal multimedia presentation will be shown to the entire class and classroom teacher. Congratulations on a job well done!

ERIE CANAL WEB QUEST