GEOGRAPHY

What Makes Washington Unique?

Unit 1 Olmsted Parks and Boulevard System: Students will learn about Seattle's Olmsted Parks and Boulevards System. They will use selected primary and secondary sources to identify which of Puget Sound's natural resources played a significant role in Olmsted's plan for the parks and boulevards.

Unit 2 Natural Resources: Students will analyze the importance of this state's natural resources to those who chose to live and work here. Students will use maps, timelines, and online research to examine why transportation played a significant role in allowing people to reach and use this region's natural and human-made resources.

Volunteer Park, circa 1912. Courtesy Museum of History & Industry.

How Did Transportation and Other Technology Create Changes?

Students will trace the population growth and the development of transportation options in the Lake Washington area using maps, graphs, and online resources. Students will compare and contrast how the lives of those living in this region have been affected by the advancement in transportation technology.

Evergreen Point Bridge pontoons under construction, Seattle, May 1961. Courtesy Museum of History & Industry.

CIVICS

How Can Citizens Work to Address the Challenges Facing Our State Today?

Students will identify current issues that impact the lives of those who live in the Lake Washington area. Using a set of primary sources provided, students will research multiple perspectives on this issue and choose a personal stand. Students will defend both their individual views on this issue and the credibility of their resources.

Protestors march across Spring Street demonstrating opposition to freeway construction, Seattle, June 1961 Courtesy Museum of History & Industry.