Our country has so many wonderful places to visit, and postcards are a fun way to let others know about where you’ve been! Using the template provided, students will create a postcard from a Midwest tourist attraction. The written part must include at least one fact about the attraction, and the picture must accurately depict the location.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a postcard from a tourist attraction in the Midwest.
Student Instructions
Begin the lesson by introducing students to the concept of tourist attractions and their role in drawing visitors to the Midwest. Discuss the importance of understanding the historical context of these attractions to appreciate their significance. Provide examples of famous Midwest tourist attractions and their historical backgrounds to pique students' interest.
Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a specific Midwest tourist attraction. Instruct students to research the history of their assigned attraction, including its origin, significant events, and any historical figures associated with it. Encourage students to explore primary and secondary sources, such as books, documents, photographs, and online resources, to gather historical information.
Guide students in using the historical information they've collected to create a historical context for their postcards. Instruct them to write a brief narrative or historical description that explains the attraction's origin, key milestones, and any historical anecdotes related to the site. Emphasize the use of descriptive language and storytelling to convey the historical significance.
Teach students how to design their tourism postcards with a historical theme. Provide guidance on layout, color choices, and the incorporation of historical imagery or illustrations. Encourage creativity in designing the postcards while ensuring that they effectively communicate the historical narrative.
An effective storyboard layout for presenting must-visit tourist destinations in the Midwest should be visually engaging and easy to navigate. Use a linear or grid layout with clear headings, images, and concise descriptions for each destination. Consider categorizing destinations by experience type, such as cultural, outdoor, historic, and family-friendly, making it user-friendly for travelers with diverse interests. Additionally, provide an interactive map for spatial reference. Visual aids should include photographs, icons, and maps, making it easy for travelers to envision their journey and select destinations based on their preferences.
Using storyboards and worksheets for self-assessment and review of Midwest tourist attractions organizes information, reinforces memory through visuals, and supports self-paced learning. Design them with clear headings, concise content, interactive elements, note space, answer keys, visuals, self-assessment prompts, and online access for flexibility.
The Midwest offers a range of outdoor activities and natural attractions for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers: Hiking: Explore the scenic trails of the Ozark Mountains in Missouri or the Appalachian Trail in Ohio. Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle along the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota or the rivers of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Camping: Enjoy the rugged beauty of the Badlands National Park in South Dakota or the serene campgrounds in the Shawnee National Forest in Illinois. Rock Climbing: Traverse the limestone cliffs of Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin. Wildlife Viewing: Spot bison herds in Custer State Park, South Dakota, or birdwatch in the Indiana Dunes National Park. Water Sports: Enjoy water skiing and boating on the many lakes in Minnesota. Scenic Drives: Take the Great River Road along the Mississippi River, or explore the scenic byways of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Mountain Biking: Traverse the challenging trails of Copper Harbor, Michigan, or the Maah Daah Hey Trail in North Dakota. These attractions offer a wide range of outdoor adventures, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Midwest.