2025-2026 FALL SEMESTER

Oregon Trail, Ghost Towns, and Idaho State History (5-8)

Tue · 2:10pm-3:10pm

Elective Class

Class is Full

Class Description: Oregon Trail, Ghost Towns, and Idaho State History – Grades 5-7

In this history class, students will take an in-depth look at the exciting and sometimes difficult experiences of pioneers on the Oregon Trail, explore the fascinating stories behind ghost towns, and dive into the rich and complex history of Idaho. Through class projects, discussions, and activities, students will gain a deeper understanding of the struggles, perseverance, and triumphs of the early settlers and Idaho’s historical development.

Students will:

• Journey the Oregon Trail: Explore the history of the Oregon Trail with a focus on the challenges faced by pioneers, such as navigating the treacherous terrain, dealing with diseases, and forming wagon trains. Students will analyze the political, economic, and other factors that motivated the westward expansion.

• Explore Ghost Towns: Delve into the mystery of the ghost towns that were once thriving communities during the Gold Rush and industrial boom.

• Investigate Idaho’s State History: Study Idaho’s diverse history, from its Native American tribes to its journey to statehood. Students will explore significant events such as the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the impact of the gold rush, and the development of agriculture and mining industries.

• Hands-On Projects and Research: Students will engage in projects such as creating maps of the Oregon Trail, researching historical figures from Idaho’s past, and ghost towns. They will also create presentations and/or write reports on topics such as pioneer life or Idaho’s road to statehood.

By the end of the course, students will have grown in understanding of the American West’s history, particularly the challenges faced by pioneers and the historical developments that shaped Idaho.

Assessment: Assessment will be based on participation, effort, and the development in each student’s work.

For students enrolled in a program like Overture, this course will cover History, Geography, Economics, Civics/Government, and Global Perspectives.

Payment Methods and Schedule

This one-hour class tuition is $240 per semester and requires an $40 material fee deposit upon enrollment. The deposit is non-refundable or transferable. Material fee is for curriculum, printing costs, and to help cover a variety of hands on projects.

Upon registration, all tuition and payments are paid directly to Ethos Academy through the Learning Management System. Parents will set up their preferred payment (in full or monthly) via bank ACHD.

Contact Information

Jennifer Roam

208-761-3804

[email protected]

208-761-3804

[email protected]