Timeline of Tennessee History

This Storyboard That activity is part of the lesson plans for Tennessee State Guide




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Activity Overview

Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Tennessee and create a timeline of important events. Students must think about what makes an event truly worthy of being included in the timeline and be able to include detail in their timeline.

For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.

Examples of Important Events in Tennessee History

1541: Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto is the first European to visit Tennessee.

1796: Tennessee is the 16th state admitted into statehood on June 1.

1861: Tennessee is the last state to join the Confederacy during the Civil War. Five years later, it is the first state to be readmitted by the Union.

1933: The first hydroelectric dam is built by the Tennessee Valley Authority.

1968: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.


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Template and Class Instructions

(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)


Due Date:

Objective: Create a timeline of 4-6 important events in Tennessee’s history.

Student Instructions

  1. Click “Start Assignment”.
  2. Use the provided blank template or add cells to your own template as needed.
  3. Write the state’s name in the top heading.
  4. In the title box, list out each of the events in sequential order and add correct dates.
  5. Describe the events in the description boxes.
  6. Create an image in each cell that depicts the events, using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
  7. Save and exit when you're finished.



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Tennessee State Guide



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