02/05/2026
CURRICULUM IN FOCUS: Fourth graders in Mrs. Beswick’s class stepped outside the classroom for a hands-on activity exploring what trade may have looked like during California’s early history.
Working in groups, students were given a list of supplies they “had” and supplies they “needed.” Their challenge was to trade with other groups to collect each item on their list. Along the way, some students realized they might need to trade for items they didn’t actually need in order to eventually get the items they did.
After the activity, students returned to the classroom and reflected on the experience in writing, describing the obstacles they faced and the strategies they used to overcome them.
This lesson is part of the fourth-grade California history unit, which moves from exploration to the mission period and eventually into the California Gold Rush. Activities like this help students build critical thinking and problem-solving skills while making history more engaging, interactive and memorable. Even better, it was a beautiful day to be outside!
