aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	History
What age group	Year or Grade 7
What topic	Washington State History
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Introduction to Washington State History

Hook: The Mystery Box

Objective:

To engage students' curiosity and spark interest in the rich history of Washington State.

Materials Needed:

• A decorative mystery box (any small box will work)
• Various items related to Washington State's history (e.g., a toy salmon, a small replica of Mt. Rainier, a piece of Native American art, a gold nugget, an old-fashioned logging tool)
• A large map of Washington State
• Sticky notes and markers

Activity Steps:

1. Set the Scene: As students enter the classroom, ensure the mystery box is placed prominently at the front. Ask them not to touch it yet but to wonder what could be inside.

2. Introduction: Once everyone is seated, tell the students that Washington State has a fascinating history full of mystery, adventure, and significant events that shaped not just the state but also the entire country.

3. Mystery Box Reveal: Invite students to come up and choose one item from the mystery box, but do not reveal each item’s significance just yet. As they pull out an item, ask them to make guesses about its importance to Washington State history and jot down their thoughts on sticky notes.

4. Discussion: After all items are revealed, facilitate a class discussion on their guesses. Ask questions such as:

   • What do you think this item represents?
   • How might it relate to the people or events in Washington State’s history?
   • Why do you think it is significant?

5. Connecting to the Big Picture: Once students have shared their thoughts, use the map of Washington State to give an overview of different historical events and figures that relate to the items they chose. For example:

   • The toy salmon can lead into discussions about the Indigenous cultures and the importance of salmon fishing.
   • The replica of Mt. Rainier can tie into the state’s geological history and importance in local culture.

6. Transition to Lesson: Conclude the introduction by explaining that over the next few weeks, they will delve deeper into the stories, events, and people that helped shape Washington State's vibrant history, starting with the indigenous cultures that inhabited the region long before European settlers arrived.

Closing:

This engaging start not only fosters curiosity about Washington State's history but also encourages students to think critically about how seemingly ordinary items can hold significant historical meanings. They'll be eager to learn more as they explore the colorful tapestry of their state's past!