This lesson introduces students to the European settlement of North America and the religious, economic, and political motivations behind colonization. Students analyze New Spain, New France, and New Netherlands, compare settlement goals, and examine how Europeans interacted with Native Americans.

Through bellwork discussion, background reading, collaborative learning, and a historical writing task, students build a strong understanding of early colonial rivalries and perspectives.

⭐ What’s Included:

• Bellwork questions reviewing European motivations for exploration and settlement
• Clear background reading on religion, wealth, and European rivalries
• Graphic organizer comparing:
• Location
• Reason for settlement
• Treatment of Native Americans
• Key explorers and their achievements

• Directions for in-school jigsaw activity or independent at-home completion
• Exit Ticket writing prompt: historical letter from a French or Dutch settler
  

📚 Key Concepts Covered:

• European colonization of North America
• Religious motivations (Catholic vs. Protestant)
• Economic goals and trade
• Colonial rivalries
• Native American–European interactions
• Perspective-taking through historical writing
  

🧠 Skills Developed:

• Reading informational text
• Comparing civilizations and settlements
• Collaborative learning (jigsaw strategy)
• Historical empathy
• Writing from a first-person perspective
  

🧑‍🏫 Classroom Uses:

• Core lesson on European settlements
• Small-group or jigsaw activity
• Independent or homework assignment
• Writing assessment or exit ticket
• Pairs well with Age of Exploration and Colonization units