It was Mark Twain who first described the period between 1870 and 1893 as the Gilded Age. It was a time of great wealth and great poverty. A time of innovation and speculation, of failing banks and struggling businesses. In many ways, it was much like today. While the Gilded Age in New York State caused great difficulties for area residents, it also ushered in many of the businesses that remain the backbone of the region. Students will be introduced to the challenges and rewards of the Gilded Age both here in New York State and throughout the United States.

The presenter will guide students on a trip back in time to the late 1800s. Using a variety of demonstrations, guided imagery, storytelling, stories published in the media of the day and personal diary entries, the students will become familiar with the average worker of the day as well as the business owner, and finally a member of the elite, the “400” of the day.

Common Core Learning Standards: English Language Arts:
• Production and distribution of writing
• Research to build and present knowledge
• Responding to literature
• Comprehension and collaboration (Speaking and Listening)
• Presentation of knowledge and ideas (Speaking and Listening)
• Vocabulary acquisition and use

Learning Standards for Social Studies:
• History of the US and NY
• Civics, citizenship, and government
• World history
• Economics

Learning Standards for the Arts:
• Creating, performing, and participating in the arts
• Responding to and analyzing works of art
• Understanding the cultural dimensions and contributions of the arts

Learning Standards for Science:
• Apply scientific concepts, principles, and theories pertaining to physical setting & living environment
• Apply knowledge & thinking skills of science to address real-life problems

Common Core Learning Standards for Mathematics:
• Making sense of problems and persevering in solving them

 

Equipment Needs: Table, chair

Set up and take down times: 15-30 minutes

Site: At your school