Process

Before the students begin this webquest, they must be divided into groups of four.  Be aware of the strengths and weaknesses of the individuals in the groups that are created, because they will need to work closely together in order to complete the final project.  Each student in the group will need to be provided with a "field journal" in which to take notes while he or she is researching his or her assigned role.  After the research has been completed, the students will also need to be provided with the materials outlined on the GAME page.  The process, as outlined for the students, is below.

Congratulations!  You are about to embark on one of the most important discovery journeys in the history of the United States.  Before you start, your teacher will assign you into groups of four.  The other members of your group are your fellow Corps mates.  It is important that you work well with these group members.

By reading the following information, you will be able to get a good feel for what the journey will be like.  Good Luck.

The year is 1804. You have decided to travel with the Corps of Discovery from Washington D.C. to St. Louis Missouri where Lewis and Clark will begin their trek into the unknown.  You have already spent a year preparing from your trip, collecting supplies and going through training.  You are told that you will be working for the United States Government in hopes of gaining knowledge on plants, animals, Native Americans, and the geography of the West.  You have been supplied with journals to record pictures, maps, and have other experts in your field to gain knowledge.  First lets find out about the people with whom you will be traveling.

All the members of the Corps have already spent time studying information which will be useful to them.  Visit the following web sites to catch up!

• Warning:  This trip may be dangerous, but it is necessary.  Learn about America in 1803 and why it is important to make this daring voyage.
• You are going to have to put all your trust in your fearless leaders.  Discover more about Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and why they are the perfect leaders.
• So, what's the verdict?  Do you think you can make it?  Then, quick, let's double check that you have packed everything you need to be fully equipped for this expedition.
• Now let's get into the meat (you'll be eating lots of it!) of this expedition and find out about what you are really in for.
• You are about to travel hundreds of miles in just two years.  Check out this timeline of the trek to get a feel for the trail.
• Bears, Buffalo, warrior Native American tribes, snowstorms, rainstorms, no food, and more...Are you still willing to go?  Don't worry, you will always have Seaman the dog to keep you company in times of trouble.

We're so glad you have chosen to be a part of this expedition.  You have done all your important research and now its time to leave!  However, don't forget that you are an expert in your field and Lewis and Clark are counting on you to gather as much useful information as possible.   You will be assigned to one of the following fields of expertise:

• Botanist
• Zoologist
• Topographer
• Indians Affair Expert

Now your ready to strap on your hiking boots and head out West.  You must know, however, that you are responsible for keeping a journal while on the trip.  Include in it all that you see and do.  Specific roles should answer their own questions here.  Pictures may help to illustrate your findings and to use on the game board at the end (See GAME for more information).  Your recordings will be of great importance to the expansion of the United States.  Good luck.  Click on your specific roles now (links on the left) to learn more about your particular area.