Kickoff Simulation - Begin with an immersive simulation where students role-play as members of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Set up stations representing key moments and challenges faced during the journey, such as navigating rivers and encountering Native American tribes. Encourage students to make decisions, solve problems, and reflect on the impact of their choices, setting the stage for deeper exploration of the essential questions throughout the project. (60 min)

Exploration and Expansion Overview - Introduce the historical context of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Engage students in a discussion about the essential questions: How did exploration and expansion change the United States? How did these events shape the concept of westward expansion? (20 min)

Research Reflection - Students share initial insights from their research and discuss how these insights connect to the essential questions. Reflect on how their understanding of the topic is evolving. (30 min)

Mapping the Route - Facilitate a hands-on mapping activity where students create detailed maps that trace the routes of Lewis and Clark, identifying geographic landmarks and significant encounters along the way. (40 min)

Collaborative Mural Planning - Begin planning the collaborative mural by identifying key moments and figures from the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Students will brainstorm visual elements and artistic interpretations to be included in the mural, ensuring alignment with historical events. (30 min)

Research Workshop - Work with a local library to introduce students to a curated collection of books and digital resources on exploration and expansion. Guide students in conducting research and drawing comparisons across various texts, focusing on RI.5.3, RI.6.3, and RI.7.3 standards. (30 min)

Feedback Wall - Create a feedback wall in the classroom where students post sticky notes with comments and suggestions on each other's draft texts and mural plans, encouraging ongoing dialogue and refinement. (30 min)

Critique and Revision - Facilitate a session where students reflect on the feedback received and make revisions to their texts and mural plans. Emphasize the importance of self-directed learning and constructive critique. (30 min)

Mural Creation Day 1 - Begin the collaborative mural creation by assigning sections to student groups. Students will start painting key moments from the Lewis and Clark Expedition, using their research to guide artistic interpretations. Focus on teamwork and effective communication. (60 min)

Mural Creation Day 2 - Continue working on the mural, ensuring historical accuracy and vibrant artistic expression. Encourage students to refine their sections based on peer feedback from the previous week. (40 min)

Final Mural Touches and Integration - Complete the mural by adding finishing details and integrating all sections cohesively. Allow students to reflect on their artistic and historical contributions to the project. (30 min)

Gallery Walk Preparation - Prepare visual projects, such as maps and timelines, for the upcoming gallery walk. Students will organize and select pieces that best illustrate the changes in the United States due to exploration and expansion. (30 min)

Gallery Walk Setup - Arrange the classroom for the gallery walk. Students will display their murals, maps, and timelines, focusing on effective communication of their learning and insights. (30 min)

Peer and Teacher Feedback Session - Conduct a gallery walk where students present their projects and receive feedback from peers and the literacy college teacher. Discuss how exploration and expansion changed the United States. (30 min)

Pioneers' Panel Preparation - Prepare for the 'Pioneers' Panel' by practicing presentation skills and panel discussion strategies. Students will organize their thoughts on the essential questions and prepare for the Q&A session. (30 min)

Exhibition and Reflection - Host the 'Pioneers' Panel' where students present their insights and reflections on exploration and expansion. Engage in a moderated discussion and open Q&A session, inviting audience participation. Reflect on personal growth and project outcomes. (30 min)