5th Grade History & Social Studies — Westward Expansion — America Grows Under Providence
Students will learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition and how these brave explorers mapped the western territory with courage and faith.
In 1804, President Jefferson chose Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to lead an expedition into the newly purchased Louisiana Territory. Their mission was called the Corps of Discovery, and they set out to explore, map, and document everything they found.
The journey took over two years and covered about 8,000 miles. Lewis and Clark faced incredible challenges — dangerous rivers, harsh winters, grizzly bears, and unknown terrain. Yet they pressed on with courage and determination.
Along the way, a Shoshone woman named Sacagawea helped guide the expedition. She served as a translator and helped the explorers communicate with Native American tribes. Her knowledge of the land was invaluable.
Lewis and Clark discovered over 300 species of plants and animals that were unknown to science at the time. They documented the beauty of God's creation across the American West — towering mountains, rushing rivers, vast prairies, and diverse wildlife.
The expedition returned safely in 1806. Their maps and journals opened the way for thousands of settlers who would follow in the years to come.
Create a journal entry as if you were a member of the Corps of Discovery. Describe one day on the trail, including what you saw, ate, and experienced. Draw a picture of an animal or plant you 'discovered.'