What was one reason why pioneers wanted to move west, as mentioned in the video?

Pioneers moved west because they could get land for a low cost through the Homestead Act.

The video mentioned that pioneers faced difficult decisions about what to bring on their journey west. Imagine you are a pioneer family. List three essential items you would bring and explain why.

Food (to survive the long journey), tools (to build a home and clear land), and warm clothing (to protect against the elements).

160 acres of land if they lived on it for five years and improved it.

Grade 4th Grade · Social Studies · 30 min· Wida

I can describe character traits that helped people survive while settling the West.

Literacy and Math Ideas · 3:35

Westward Expansion Explained For Kids

3 key concepts

1
The westward expansion helps us understand how America came to be what it is today.
2
The Homestead Act promised 160 acres of land to anyone that paid a small fee, lived on the land for 5 years, and made improvements.
3
Pioneers believed in Manifest Destiny, which led to many Native Americans being forced out of their homes.

3 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer

Quick comprehension check

“What was one character trait that helped pioneers survive while settling the West, and how did that trait help them overcome challenges?”

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