Social Studies Lessons
Using the Hudson River
These lessons look at the Hudson Valley's history, geography and economics through the lense of the region's natural resources. The distinct identity of the Hudson River Valley as a place results from the intertwining of its natural history and its human history. Revolutionary War strategies, the vision of the Hudson River School's painters, New York's development into the Empire State, and the birth of the modern environmental movement were all inextricably linked to this region's landscape and geography.
Rivers Run Through It
Students will interpret and label a relief map to answer questions about distance, direction, and natural features along the Hudson River and in New York State.
Educator Lesson Plan for "Rivers Run Through It"
Educator Version of the Map for "Rivers Run Through It" (550 kb pdf)
Student Worksheet for "Rivers Run Through It" (590 kb pdf)
These Maps Are For The Birds *DRAFT*
Students will study New York State Breeding Bird Atlas maps to learn where different bird species nest and how their distributions have changed over time. While the focus is birds, this lesson is built around interpreting maps and comparing changes over time as shown on maps. It also requires students to think about changes in the landscape caused by settlement and economic development.
Educator Lesson Plan for "These Maps Are For The Birds"
Student Worksheet for "These Maps Are For The Birds " (1020 kb pdf)
