The Dust Bowl History Tie-In

To help students understand important events in U.S. History during the time period of the setting for the novel Of Mice and Men; these include westward expansion, the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl.    

Duration: 
Print55-minute class period
Objectives: 

Students will gain a perspective and deeper understanding of the setting and time period of the John Steinbeck novel Of Mice and Men.

Materials: 

History textbook and class notes from lectures and discussions about this time period.

Bibliography: 

Steinbeck, John (1937). Of Mice and Men.

Instructions: 
Print
  1. During seventh grade at Westminster, students study U.S. History that provides an understanding of westward expansion, the Great Depression, and the Dust Bowl. The teacher provides a lecture / presentation and historical readings that support students’ knowledge of the setting of the John Steinbeck novel Of Mice and Men; this helps students better understand and empathize with the novel’s characters and the challenges they face.

Assessment: 

Responses to questions on quizzes and tests, and discussion during teacher presentations.

Reflection: 

Discussion provides good reflection for this lesson.