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4th Grade History

A Christ-centered exploration of American history from colonial times through the founding of the nation. Students will discover God's providence in the settlement of America, the struggle for independence, and the establishment of constitutional government. Through primary sources, biographical studies, and hands-on activities, fourth graders develop historical thinking skills while understanding how biblical principles influenced America's founding.

180Lessons
36Weeks
30Min/Day

Year-Long Goals

1

Understand the colonial period, including regional differences, daily life, and religious foundations

2

Analyze the causes and key events of the American Revolution, recognizing God's providence in the birth of the nation

3

Explain the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and founding principles rooted in biblical concepts of justice and human dignity

4

Develop geographic literacy about the thirteen colonies and early United States

5

Practice historical thinking through primary source analysis, timeline creation, and multiple perspective consideration

6

Understand basic civics concepts including government structure, citizenship responsibilities, and religious liberty

7

Apply economic concepts to colonial and early American contexts

36-Week Scope & Sequence

Click any week to see daily lesson details.

Week 1The Thirteen Colonies: An OverviewBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryIdentifying the thirteen colonies and understanding regional differences
Materials:
  • Thirteen colonies map
  • Colored pencils
  • Index cards
  • Timeline template
Day 1

Mapping the Thirteen

Introduction to the thirteen original colonies, their locations, and how they were established between 1607-1733.

Map reading and colony identificationhands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 2

Three Regions, Three Personalities

Exploring the New England, Middle, and Southern colonial regions and their distinct characteristics.

Comparative analysisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 3

Why They Came: Religious Freedom

Understanding the religious motivations of many colonists, including Pilgrims, Puritans, Quakers, and Catholics seeking freedom to worship.

Cause and effect analysisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 4

Economic Dreams in the New World

Examining economic reasons for colonization including trade, resources, and opportunities for land ownership.

Economic reasoningworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 5

Colony Trading Cards

Creating informational cards for each colony with key facts, founding date, founder, and unique characteristics.

Research and summarizationproject📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 2New England Colonies: Faith and CommunityBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding Puritan influence and New England colonial life
Materials:
  • New England map
  • Primary source excerpts
  • Mayflower Compact copy
  • Construction paper
Day 6

Plymouth Rock and the Pilgrims

The story of the Pilgrims' journey on the Mayflower, their covenant community, and the first Thanksgiving.

Narrative comprehensiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 7

The Mayflower Compact: America's First Agreement

Analyzing the Mayflower Compact as an early example of self-government and biblical principles in governance.

Primary source analysisworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 8

Massachusetts Bay: City Upon a Hill

John Winthrop's vision for Massachusetts Bay Colony as a Christian community and example to the world.

Understanding historical vision and purposediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 9

Daily Life in a New England Village

Exploring daily routines, town meetings, schools, churches, and seasonal work in New England colonial communities.

Historical empathy and visualizationhands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 10

Roger Williams and Religious Tolerance

The founding of Rhode Island by Roger Williams and his belief in religious freedom and separation of church and state.

Understanding diverse perspectivesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 3Middle Colonies: Diversity and OpportunityBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryRecognizing cultural and religious diversity in the Middle Colonies
Materials:
  • Middle Colonies map
  • Chart paper
  • Markers
  • Immigration story excerpts
Day 11

New York: From Dutch to English

The transformation of New Amsterdam to New York and the diverse population of the colony.

Understanding cultural transitiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 12

Pennsylvania: The Holy Experiment

William Penn's Quaker colony built on principles of peace, tolerance, and fair treatment of Native Americans.

Analyzing founding principlesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 13

Breadbasket Colonies: Farms and Trade

The Middle Colonies' rich farmland, wheat production, and role as the breadbasket of colonial America.

Economic geographyworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 14

A Melting Pot of Peoples

The diverse population of the Middle Colonies including English, Dutch, German, Swedish, and other groups living together.

Understanding cultural diversityhands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 15

Philadelphia: Colonial City Life

Exploring urban life in colonial Philadelphia, including markets, craftsmen, taverns, and civic institutions.

Comparing urban and rural lifediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 4Southern Colonies: Plantations and AgricultureBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the plantation economy and social structure
Materials:
  • Southern Colonies map
  • Crop cards
  • Timeline materials
  • Diagram paper
Day 16

Jamestown: England's First Foothold

The founding of Jamestown in 1607, early struggles, and John Smith's leadership.

Identifying challenges and solutionsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 17

Tobacco: The Cash Crop

How tobacco became the economic foundation of Virginia and shaped the colony's development.

Economic cause and effectworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 18

The Plantation System

Understanding how large plantations operated, including the roles of owners, overseers, and enslaved workers.

Analyzing economic systemsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 19

Rice, Indigo, and Cotton

The diverse agricultural economy of the Southern Colonies and how geography influenced crop selection.

Geographic reasoninghands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 20

Life on a Southern Plantation

Comparing the experiences of plantation owners, small farmers, indentured servants, and enslaved Africans.

Multiple perspective analysisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 5Colonial Society and Daily LifeBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding social structures and daily experiences in colonial America
Materials:
  • Role cards
  • Colonial craft supplies
  • Primary source images
  • Comparison charts
Day 21

Who's Who in Colonial Society

The social hierarchy in the colonies including gentry, middle class, laborers, indentured servants, and enslaved people.

Understanding social structuresdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 22

A Day in Colonial Childhood

Comparing a colonial child's daily life to modern childhood, including chores, education, and play.

Historical comparisonhands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 23

Colonial Trades and Crafts

Exploring the work of blacksmiths, coopers, silversmiths, printers, and other colonial craftspeople.

Understanding occupations and skillshands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 24

Food, Clothing, and Shelter

How colonists met basic needs through farming, home production, and adaptation to available resources.

Understanding resource useworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 25

Colonial Life Simulation

Interactive activity experiencing aspects of colonial daily life through role-play and hands-on tasks.

Historical empathy and synthesisgame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 6Native Americans and European ContactBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding Native American cultures and the impact of European colonization
Materials:
  • Native American regions map
  • Primary source documents
  • Comparison charts
  • Timeline materials
Day 26

First Peoples of the Eastern Woodlands

Native American tribes of the colonial regions including the Powhatan, Wampanoag, Iroquois, and others.

Cultural understandingdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 27

Early Encounters: Help and Conflict

Both cooperative and conflicting interactions between Native Americans and European colonists.

Analyzing complex relationshipsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 28

Squanto: Bridge Between Two Worlds

The remarkable life of Squanto and his role helping the Pilgrims survive, seen as God's providence.

Biographical analysisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 29

Land, Treaties, and Broken Promises

How colonization affected Native American lands, lives, and cultures, including broken treaties and displacement.

Understanding consequences and injusticediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 30

Perspectives on Contact

Comparing European and Native American perspectives on land ownership, trade, and cultural exchange.

Multiple perspective analysisworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 7Colonial Government and Self-RuleBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the development of representative government in the colonies
Materials:
  • Government structure diagrams
  • Primary source excerpts
  • Chart paper
  • Markers
Day 31

The House of Burgesses: America's First Legislature

The establishment of the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1619 as the first representative assembly in America.

Understanding representative governmentdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 32

Town Meetings: Democracy in Action

How New England town meetings allowed colonists to participate directly in local government decisions.

Understanding democratic participationhands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 33

Colonial Charters: Rights and Rules

How colonial charters defined the relationship between colonies and England and guaranteed certain rights.

Document analysisworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 34

English Rights, American Expectations

The tradition of English rights and liberties that colonists believed they possessed as English subjects.

Understanding rights and expectationsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 35

Seeds of Independence

How the practice of self-government in the colonies planted seeds for future independence from Britain.

Identifying historical patternsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 8Colonial Economy and TradeBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding mercantilism and colonial economic systems
Materials:
  • Trade route maps
  • Triangular trade diagram
  • Economic concept cards
  • Chart paper
Day 36

Mercantilism: England's Economic Plan

The mercantilist system where colonies existed to benefit the mother country through trade and resources.

Understanding economic systemsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 37

The Navigation Acts: Trade Rules

Laws requiring colonists to trade primarily with England and use English ships, creating economic tensions.

Analyzing laws and their effectsworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 38

The Triangular Trade

The three-way trade system connecting Europe, Africa, and the Americas, including the tragic slave trade.

Understanding trade networkshands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 39

Colonial Imports and Exports

What the colonies produced and sold versus what they needed to buy from England and other places.

Economic analysisworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 40

Money Matters in the Colonies

The challenge of currency in the colonies, including English coins, paper money, and barter systems.

Understanding monetary systemsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 9The Great Awakening and Colonial CultureBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding religious revival and cultural development in colonial America
Materials:
  • Primary source excerpts
  • Timeline materials
  • Biographical cards
  • Map of revival locations
Day 41

Spiritual Fire: The Great Awakening Begins

The religious revival of the 1730s-1740s that swept through the colonies with powerful preaching and conversions.

Understanding religious movementsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 42

Jonathan Edwards: Preacher of Revival

The life and ministry of Jonathan Edwards and his role in the Great Awakening in New England.

Biographical analysisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 43

George Whitefield: Voice Across the Colonies

George Whitefield's traveling ministry that united colonists across regional boundaries through shared faith.

Understanding unifying influencesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 44

Impact of the Awakening

How the Great Awakening affected colonial society, education, and ideas about individual conscience and authority.

Analyzing historical impactworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 45

Colonial Schools and Learning

Education in the colonies including dame schools, grammar schools, and colleges founded during this era.

Understanding educational developmentdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 10French and Indian WarBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the causes and consequences of the French and Indian War
Materials:
  • War map
  • Timeline materials
  • Primary source images
  • Battle cards
Day 46

Empires Collide: France vs. Britain

The competition between France and Britain for control of North American territory and trade.

Understanding imperial conflictdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 47

Young George Washington's Mission

George Washington's role as a young officer in the early battles of the French and Indian War.

Biographical study and historical narrativediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 48

Native Americans Choose Sides

How different Native American tribes allied with either France or Britain based on their own interests.

Understanding strategic alliancesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 49

Victory and Its Price

British victory in 1763, the Treaty of Paris, and the enormous war debt that resulted.

Analyzing consequencesworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 50

Seeds of Revolution

How the French and Indian War set the stage for the American Revolution through debt, taxes, and colonial unity.

Identifying cause and effect chainsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 11Growing Tensions with BritainBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the escalating conflict between Britain and the colonies
Materials:
  • Timeline template
  • Tax act cards
  • Primary source political cartoons
  • Chart paper
Day 51

The Proclamation of 1763: No Westward Movement

Britain's ban on colonial settlement west of the Appalachians and colonists' angry response.

Understanding policy and reactiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 52

Sugar and Stamps: New Taxes

The Sugar Act and Stamp Act as Britain's attempts to make colonists help pay war debts.

Analyzing taxation policiesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 53

No Taxation Without Representation!

The colonists' argument that they should not be taxed by a Parliament where they had no representatives.

Understanding political principlesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 54

Sons of Liberty: Organized Resistance

The formation of the Sons of Liberty and their protests, boycotts, and sometimes violent resistance.

Understanding protest movementsworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 55

The Townshend Acts and Colonial Unity

New taxes on imported goods and how colonial resistance began uniting the colonies against Britain.

Identifying unifying factorsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 12The Road to RevolutionBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryAnalyzing the events that led directly to armed conflict
Materials:
  • Event sequence cards
  • Boston map
  • Primary source accounts
  • Timeline materials
Day 56

The Boston Massacre: Tragedy in the Streets

The confrontation between colonists and British soldiers in 1770 that left five colonists dead.

Analyzing conflicting accountsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 57

Tea, Taxes, and Trouble

The Tea Act of 1773 and why it angered colonists despite actually lowering the price of tea.

Understanding principles over pricediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 58

The Boston Tea Party: Defiance in the Harbor

The dramatic protest where colonists dumped 342 chests of British tea into Boston Harbor.

Analyzing protest tacticshands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 59

Intolerable Acts: Britain Cracks Down

The harsh Coercive Acts that punished Massachusetts and united other colonies in sympathy.

Understanding action and reactionworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 60

The First Continental Congress

Colonial leaders meeting in Philadelphia in 1774 to coordinate resistance to British policies.

Understanding collective actiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 13The Revolution BeginsBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the outbreak of armed conflict and the decision for independence
Materials:
  • Battle maps
  • Primary source documents
  • Timeline materials
  • Biographical cards
Day 61

Lexington and Concord: The Shot Heard Round the World

The first battles of the American Revolution on April 19, 1775, and Paul Revere's midnight ride.

Narrative sequencingdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 62

Bunker Hill: Proving Colonial Determination

The costly British victory at Bunker Hill that showed colonists could stand against professional soldiers.

Analyzing military significancediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 63

George Washington Takes Command

The Continental Congress appointing George Washington as commander of the Continental Army.

Understanding leadership selectiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 64

Common Sense: The Case for Independence

Thomas Paine's influential pamphlet that convinced many colonists to support complete independence.

Analyzing persuasive writingworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 65

The Decision for Independence

The Continental Congress debates independence and takes the momentous vote in July 1776.

Understanding decision-making processdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 14The Declaration of IndependenceBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryAnalyzing and understanding the Declaration of Independence
Materials:
  • Declaration text
  • Primary source analysis worksheets
  • Chart paper
  • Markers
Day 66

Thomas Jefferson: Penning Freedom

Thomas Jefferson's role as primary author of the Declaration and the committee that helped him.

Understanding authorship and collaborationdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 67

We Hold These Truths: Natural Rights

The Declaration's statement that all people have God-given rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Understanding foundational principlesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 68

A List of Grievances

The Declaration's detailed complaints against King George III that justified separation from Britain.

Analyzing evidence and argumentworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 69

July 4, 1776: A Nation Declared

The adoption of the Declaration of Independence and its public reading, launching a new nation.

Understanding historical significancediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 70

Biblical Foundations of the Declaration

How biblical concepts of human dignity, justice, and God-given rights influenced the Declaration's ideas.

Connecting Scripture to historydiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 15Patriots, Loyalists, and NeutralsBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding different perspectives during the Revolution
Materials:
  • Perspective cards
  • Primary source letters
  • Chart paper
  • Role-play materials
Day 71

Choosing Sides: A Divided People

How Americans divided into Patriots supporting independence, Loyalists supporting Britain, and those remaining neutral.

Understanding diverse perspectivesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 72

Why Patriots Fought

The reasons Patriots risked everything for independence: liberty, self-government, and freedom from tyranny.

Analyzing motivationsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 73

Loyalist Perspectives

Understanding why some colonists remained loyal to Britain, including ties, stability, and fear of change.

Considering opposing viewpointsworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 74

The Price of Loyalty and Patriotism

How both Patriots and Loyalists suffered persecution, violence, and loss during the Revolutionary period.

Understanding consequences of choicesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 75

Perspective Role-Play

Interactive activity experiencing different viewpoints through role-playing Patriots, Loyalists, and neutral colonists.

Historical empathygame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 16Fighting the Revolutionary WarBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding major battles and military strategies of the Revolution
Materials:
  • Battle maps
  • Timeline materials
  • Strategy game pieces
  • Primary source accounts
Day 76

David vs. Goliath: Comparing the Armies

The Continental Army's disadvantages compared to the powerful British military, and the Patriots' advantages.

Comparative analysisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 77

Defeat in New York, Retreat Across New Jersey

Early British victories and Washington's strategic retreats that kept the Continental Army intact.

Understanding military strategydiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 78

Christmas Crossing: Victory at Trenton

Washington's bold crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas night 1776 and surprise attack on Trenton.

Analyzing turning pointsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 79

Saratoga: The Battle That Changed Everything

The American victory at Saratoga in 1777 that convinced France to ally with the United States.

Understanding strategic importanceworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 80

Valley Forge: Winter of Suffering and Strength

The Continental Army's harsh winter at Valley Forge and how they emerged stronger and better trained.

Understanding perseverancediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 17Heroes of the RevolutionBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryStudying key individuals who contributed to American independence
Materials:
  • Biographical cards
  • Primary source quotes
  • Project materials
  • Timeline
Day 81

George Washington: Father of the Nation

Washington's leadership, character, and faith that held the Continental Army and nation together.

Biographical analysisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 82

Benjamin Franklin: Diplomat and Inventor

Franklin's crucial role securing French alliance and his many contributions to the American cause.

Understanding diplomatic contributionsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 83

Women of the Revolution

Contributions of Abigail Adams, Mercy Otis Warren, Deborah Sampson, and other women to the Revolutionary cause.

Recognizing diverse contributionsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 84

African Americans in the Fight for Freedom

The service of African Americans like Crispus Attucks and James Armistead who fought for liberty.

Understanding inclusive historyworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 85

Revolutionary Hero Biography Project

Students research and present on a Revolutionary War figure, highlighting their contributions and character.

Research and presentationproject📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 18Winning IndependenceBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding how the Revolution was won and independence secured
Materials:
  • War maps
  • Treaty documents
  • Timeline materials
  • Primary sources
Day 86

War in the South: A New Strategy

The British shift to fighting in the Southern colonies and the guerrilla warfare tactics used against them.

Understanding changing strategiesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 87

Nathanael Greene and the Southern Campaign

General Greene's brilliant strategy of wearing down British forces through strategic retreats and attacks.

Analyzing military tacticsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 88

Yorktown: The Final Battle

The siege of Yorktown in 1781 where American and French forces trapped and defeated Cornwallis's army.

Understanding decisive battlesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 89

The Treaty of Paris 1783

Negotiating peace with Britain and the terms that officially recognized American independence.

Analyzing treaty termsworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 90

Providence in the Revolution

Examining how God's hand guided events throughout the Revolution, as recognized by the founders themselves.

Theological reflection on historydiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 19Geography of the United StatesBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding US physical and political geography
Materials:
  • US maps
  • Colored pencils
  • Geography cards
  • Atlas
Day 91

From Sea to Shining Sea: US Boundaries

The geographic boundaries of the United States after independence, from Atlantic to Mississippi River.

Map reading and boundarieshands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 92

Major Landforms of the United States

Identifying and locating major mountain ranges, plains, plateaus, and valleys across the nation.

Physical geography identificationworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 93

Rivers and Lakes: Water Features

Mapping major rivers like the Mississippi, Ohio, and Hudson, and important lakes across the country.

Hydrography understandinghands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 94

Climate Zones and Regions

Understanding how climate varies across the United States and affects settlement and economy.

Climate analysisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 95

How Geography Shaped History

Analyzing how mountains, rivers, and climate influenced where colonists settled and how the nation developed.

Geographic reasoning in historyworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 20The Articles of ConfederationBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the first attempt at national government
Materials:
  • Articles text excerpts
  • Government structure diagrams
  • Problem-solution charts
Day 96

A Loose Confederation of States

The Articles of Confederation as America's first constitution creating a weak central government.

Understanding government structurediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 97

Powers and Weaknesses

What the national government could and could not do under the Articles of Confederation.

Analyzing governmental powersworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 98

Problems Mount: Debt and Discord

The economic problems and interstate conflicts that arose under the weak national government.

Identifying governmental problemsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 99

Shays' Rebellion: A Wake-Up Call

The armed uprising of Massachusetts farmers that showed the need for a stronger national government.

Understanding crisis as catalystdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 100

The Call for Change

Growing recognition that the Articles needed major revision or replacement to save the Union.

Recognizing need for reformdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 21The Constitutional ConventionBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the creation of the US Constitution
Materials:
  • Convention role cards
  • Primary source excerpts
  • Chart paper
  • Constitution text
Day 101

Philadelphia 1787: A Secret Meeting

Delegates gathering in Philadelphia to revise the Articles but deciding to write an entirely new Constitution.

Understanding historical decision-makingdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 102

James Madison: Father of the Constitution

Madison's Virginia Plan and his crucial role in designing the new government structure.

Biographical analysis and contributiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 103

The Great Compromise

How delegates resolved the conflict between large and small states over representation in Congress.

Understanding compromisediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 104

The Three-Fifths Compromise

The controversial compromise over counting enslaved people for representation and taxation.

Understanding difficult compromisesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 105

Signing the Constitution

The completion and signing of the Constitution on September 17, 1787, and Franklin's final speech.

Understanding historical significancediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 22The Constitution: Structure and PrinciplesBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the Constitution's framework and foundational principles
Materials:
  • Constitution text
  • Government structure diagrams
  • Principle cards
  • Chart paper
Day 106

We the People: The Preamble

Analyzing the Preamble's statement of the Constitution's purposes and the idea of popular sovereignty.

Text analysisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 107

Three Branches: Separation of Powers

How the Constitution divides power among legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Understanding government structurehands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 108

Checks and Balances: Preventing Tyranny

The system of checks and balances that prevents any branch from becoming too powerful.

Analyzing governmental systemsworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 109

Federalism: National and State Powers

How the Constitution divides power between the national government and state governments.

Understanding power distributiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 110

Biblical Principles in the Constitution

How biblical concepts of human nature, justice, and limited government influenced the Constitution's design.

Connecting faith to governmentdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 23Ratifying the ConstitutionBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the debate over ratification
Materials:
  • Federalist/Anti-Federalist documents
  • Debate cards
  • Timeline materials
  • Primary sources
Day 111

Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists

The two sides in the ratification debate: those supporting and those opposing the new Constitution.

Understanding opposing viewpointsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 112

The Federalist Papers

Hamilton, Madison, and Jay's essays explaining and defending the Constitution to the public.

Understanding persuasive writingdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 113

Anti-Federalist Concerns

Worries about a too-powerful central government and the lack of a bill of rights in the Constitution.

Analyzing concerns and objectionsworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 114

The Promise of a Bill of Rights

How Federalists promised to add a bill of rights to win ratification from hesitant states.

Understanding political compromisediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 115

Ratification Complete

The state-by-state ratification process and the Constitution taking effect in 1788.

Understanding adoption processdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 24The Bill of RightsBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the first ten amendments and individual liberties
Materials:
  • Bill of Rights text
  • Amendment cards
  • Scenario cards
  • Chart paper
Day 116

Protecting Individual Rights

Why the Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution to protect citizens from government overreach.

Understanding rights protectiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 117

First Amendment Freedoms

The five freedoms in the First Amendment: religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition.

Analyzing fundamental freedomsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 118

Rights of the Accused

Amendments protecting people accused of crimes including due process, fair trials, and no cruel punishment.

Understanding legal protectionsworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 119

Powers Reserved to the People

The Ninth and Tenth Amendments protecting rights not listed and reserving powers to states and people.

Understanding limited governmentdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 120

Religious Liberty: A Biblical Foundation

How the First Amendment's religious freedom reflected biblical principles of conscience and faith.

Connecting faith to rightsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 25The New Government BeginsBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding the establishment of the federal government
Materials:
  • Timeline materials
  • Government position cards
  • Primary source images
  • Map
Day 121

President George Washington

Washington's election as first president and his awareness of setting precedents for future leaders.

Understanding precedent-settingdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 122

Building the Executive Branch

Washington's creation of the Cabinet with departments of State, Treasury, and War.

Understanding executive organizationdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 123

Hamilton's Financial Plan

Alexander Hamilton's controversial plan to pay national debts and establish a national bank.

Understanding economic policyworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 124

The Judiciary Act of 1789

Congress establishing the federal court system with district and circuit courts.

Understanding judicial structurediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 125

The Capital City: Washington, D.C.

The compromise creating a new capital city on the Potomac River between North and South.

Understanding political compromisediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 26Challenges for the New NationBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding domestic and foreign challenges facing the early republic
Materials:
  • Event cards
  • Map of territories
  • Primary source documents
  • Timeline
Day 126

Whiskey Rebellion: Testing Federal Authority

The 1794 rebellion against whiskey taxes and Washington's response showing federal government strength.

Understanding government authoritydiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 127

Troubles with Britain and France

Foreign policy challenges as Britain and France went to war and both interfered with American shipping.

Understanding foreign relationsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 128

Washington's Farewell Address

Washington's warnings about political parties, foreign alliances, and maintaining national unity.

Analyzing historical adviceworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 129

The Rise of Political Parties

The emergence of Federalists and Democratic-Republicans despite warnings against factions.

Understanding political developmentdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 130

John Adams: Second President

Adams's presidency and challenges including the XYZ Affair and Alien and Sedition Acts.

Understanding presidential leadershipdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 27Expansion and ExplorationBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding territorial growth and westward exploration
Materials:
  • Expansion maps
  • Timeline materials
  • Lewis and Clark resources
  • Primary source journals
Day 131

The Louisiana Purchase

Jefferson's 1803 purchase of Louisiana Territory from France, doubling the size of the United States.

Understanding territorial expansiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 132

Lewis and Clark: Journey of Discovery

The Corps of Discovery's expedition to explore the Louisiana Purchase and reach the Pacific Ocean.

Understanding explorationdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 133

Sacagawea: Guide and Interpreter

The crucial role of Sacagawea, a Shoshone woman, in helping Lewis and Clark succeed.

Recognizing diverse contributionsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 134

Mapping the Louisiana Territory

The geographic discoveries and mapping accomplished by the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Geographic analysishands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 135

Impact on Native Americans

How westward expansion affected Native American tribes already living in these territories.

Understanding multiple perspectivesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 28The War of 1812BibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding causes and consequences of the War of 1812
Materials:
  • War maps
  • Timeline materials
  • Primary source documents
  • Battle cards
Day 136

Causes of the War of 1812

British impressment of American sailors, trade restrictions, and support for Native American resistance.

Identifying causes of conflictdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 137

Early Battles and Setbacks

American struggles in early battles including the burning of Washington, D.C. by British forces.

Understanding military challengesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 138

The Star-Spangled Banner

Francis Scott Key witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry and writing America's national anthem.

Understanding cultural significancediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 139

The Battle of New Orleans

Andrew Jackson's decisive victory after the peace treaty was signed, making him a national hero.

Analyzing historical ironyworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 140

Results and National Pride

The war's end without major territorial changes but with increased American nationalism and confidence.

Understanding war consequencesdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 29The Monroe Doctrine and Growing InfluenceBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding America's expanding role and influence
Materials:
  • Hemisphere maps
  • Primary source documents
  • Timeline materials
  • Political cartoons
Day 141

The Era of Good Feelings

The period of national unity and optimism following the War of 1812 under President Monroe.

Understanding historical periodsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 142

The Monroe Doctrine: America's Warning

Monroe's 1823 declaration warning European powers against further colonization in the Americas.

Understanding foreign policydiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 143

Florida Joins the Union

The acquisition of Florida from Spain through treaty negotiations in 1819.

Understanding territorial acquisitionworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 144

The Missouri Compromise

The 1820 agreement maintaining balance between free and slave states as the nation expanded.

Understanding sectional compromisediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 145

America's Place in the World

How the United States was establishing itself as an independent nation with growing influence.

Understanding national developmentdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 30Economic Growth and ChangeBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding economic development in the early republic
Materials:
  • Economic change charts
  • Innovation cards
  • Map of transportation routes
  • Primary sources
Day 146

The Industrial Revolution Begins

The shift from home-based production to factory manufacturing, starting in New England textile mills.

Understanding economic transformationdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 147

Inventions Change Life

Key inventions like the cotton gin, steamboat, and mechanical reaper that transformed American economy.

Analyzing technological impacthands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 148

Transportation Revolution: Roads and Canals

The building of roads and canals, especially the Erie Canal, connecting regions and enabling trade.

Understanding infrastructure developmentworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 149

The Steamboat and Railroad Era

How steamboats and early railroads revolutionized transportation and commerce.

Analyzing transportation evolutiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 150

Regional Economic Differences

How North, South, and West developed different economies based on geography and resources.

Regional economic analysisworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 31Citizenship and GovernmentBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding rights, responsibilities, and civic participation
Materials:
  • Citizenship cards
  • Government structure diagrams
  • Scenario cards
  • Chart paper
Day 151

What Makes a Good Citizen?

The responsibilities and character qualities of good citizenship in a republic.

Understanding civic virtuediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 152

Rights and Responsibilities

The balance between the rights citizens enjoy and the responsibilities they must fulfill.

Analyzing civic balanceworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 153

How a Bill Becomes a Law

The legislative process from idea to law, including committee work, debate, and presidential action.

Understanding legislative processhands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 154

The Role of the Supreme Court

How the Supreme Court interprets the Constitution and settles disputes about laws.

Understanding judicial reviewdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 155

Christian Citizenship: Salt and Light

How Christians can be good citizens by serving others, promoting justice, and honoring God.

Integrating faith and citizenshipdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 32American Symbols and PatriotismBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryUnderstanding national symbols and their meanings
Materials:
  • Symbol pictures
  • Flag
  • Primary source documents
  • Art supplies
Day 156

The American Flag: Stars and Stripes

The history, design, and meaning of the American flag and proper flag etiquette.

Understanding symbolic representationdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 157

The Great Seal and Bald Eagle

The symbolism in the Great Seal of the United States and the bald eagle as national bird.

Interpreting symbolsworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 158

The Liberty Bell and Statue of Liberty

The history and meaning of these iconic symbols of American freedom and welcome.

Understanding historical symbolsdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 159

National Monuments and Memorials

Important monuments in Washington, D.C. and what they commemorate about American history.

Understanding commemorationdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 160

Patriotic Songs and Their Stories

The history behind patriotic songs like 'America the Beautiful' and 'God Bless America.'

Understanding cultural expressionhands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 33Review: Colonial America to IndependenceBibleMouse 4th Grade HistorySynthesizing knowledge of colonial period and Revolution
Materials:
  • Review games
  • Timeline materials
  • Quiz materials
  • Project supplies
Day 161

Colonial America Timeline Challenge

Interactive review of colonial settlement, development, and regional characteristics through timeline activities.

Chronological organizationgame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 162

Road to Revolution Relay

Review of events leading to American Revolution through engaging relay race format.

Cause and effect sequencinggame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 163

Revolutionary War Heroes and Battles

Comprehensive review of key people, battles, and turning points of the American Revolution.

Biographical and military knowledgeworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 164

Declaration of Independence Deep Dive

Detailed review of the Declaration's principles, grievances, and lasting significance.

Document analysis and interpretationdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 165

Colonial to Revolution Quiz Show

Team-based quiz game reviewing all aspects of colonial America through independence.

Comprehensive knowledge recallgame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 34Review: Constitution and New NationBibleMouse 4th Grade HistorySynthesizing knowledge of Constitution and early republic
Materials:
  • Review games
  • Constitution text
  • Quiz materials
  • Chart paper
Day 166

Constitution Jeopardy

Game-based review of Constitutional Convention, structure, principles, and ratification.

Constitutional knowledgegame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 167

Bill of Rights Scenarios

Applying knowledge of the Bill of Rights to real-world scenarios and current situations.

Application of rights knowledgeworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 168

Early Presidents and Precedents

Review of Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe and their contributions.

Presidential knowledgediscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 169

Expansion and Growth Review

Comprehensive review of territorial expansion, exploration, and early 19th century development.

Geographic and chronological knowledgehands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 170

New Nation Challenge

Team competition reviewing all aspects of Constitutional period and early republic.

Comprehensive synthesisgame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 35Geography and Civics ReviewBibleMouse 4th Grade HistorySynthesizing geographic and civic knowledge
Materials:
  • Maps
  • Government diagrams
  • Quiz materials
  • Activity cards
Day 171

US Geography Bee

Competitive review of US physical and political geography, regions, and resources.

Geographic knowledgegame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 172

Three Branches Simulation

Interactive simulation of how the three branches of government work together with checks and balances.

Government structure understandinghands-on📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 173

Citizenship in Action

Review of citizen rights and responsibilities through scenarios and role-play.

Civic knowledge applicationgame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 174

Economics of Early America

Review of colonial economy, mercantilism, and economic development in early republic.

Economic understandingworksheet📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 175

Geography and Civics Challenge

Comprehensive team competition reviewing geographic and civic concepts from the year.

Integrated knowledgegame📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Week 36Celebration and ReflectionBibleMouse 4th Grade HistoryDemonstrating learning and reflecting on God's providence
Materials:
  • Project presentation materials
  • Celebration supplies
  • Reflection journals
  • Assessment materials
Day 176

History Fair: Student Presentations

Students present culminating projects on topics from colonial America through early republic.

Research and presentationproject📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 177

Timeline of American History

Creating a comprehensive illustrated timeline of events studied throughout the year.

Chronological synthesisproject📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 178

God's Hand in American History

Reflecting on how God's providence guided events from colonial settlement through the founding.

Theological reflectiondiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 179

What We Learned About America

Reflecting on key lessons about freedom, government, citizenship, and American character.

Reflective synthesisdiscussion📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭
Day 180

Celebrating American History

Year-end celebration with patriotic songs, presentations, and recognition of student achievements.

Celebration and appreciationproject📖 Start BibleMouse Lesson 🐭

Ready to Begin?

Start with Day 1 and work through at your own pace. Each lesson builds on the last!