Last updated: August 22, 2024
Lesson Plan
Opening the Gates to Change: the Erie Canal and Woman’s Suffrage
The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor provides resources for learning about the history of the canal and the culture and influence of Western and central New York State.
Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor
- Grade Level:
- Middle School: Sixth Grade through Eighth Grade
- Subject:
- Social Studies
- Lesson Duration:
- 90 Minutes
Essential Question
How did the Erie Canal influence social reform movements in the 19th century?
Objective
1. Students will learn about the impact of the Erie Canal on the development of 19th century reform movements, such as, women’s rights, abolitionism, and religious revival.
2. Students will understand how 19th century social reformers used the Erie Canal to promote their causes.
3. Students will be able to make connections between past reform movements and contemporary issues of equality and social and environmental justice.
Preparation
Print worksheets attached below in the lesson plan PDF.
Materials
Printable Lesson Plan PDF
Download Opening the Gates to Change
Procedure
Watch Opening the Gates to Change: the Erie Canal and Woman’s Suffrage and Take Notes (10 minutes).
Follow additional instructions, included in lesson plan PDF.