Students brainstorm their associations with the word “cow." Then they read about the history of cattle in Texas. Next they learn about barbed wire and windmills, and they analyze how ranching affected the environment. Finally they read the lyrics to the song “The Farmer and the Cowman,” and they explain the conflict between these two populations.
Students are introduced to the idea that Texas is often associated with cowboys and ranches and read about the lesson focus on the history of cattle in Texas. They then respond to a word cloud prompt by posting a word or short phrase about what they think of when they hear the word cow.
Teacher MovesPreview the experience by explaining that students will explore the history of cattle ranching, key people and events, and its environmental impact. Review the objective and vocabulary as needed, then allow time for students to view and enjoy each other’s word cloud responses before moving on.
Students examine an image of a cattle ranch and read a narrative explaining the development of ranching in Texas, including early ranching under Mexico, the emergence of Texas longhorns, the effects of the Civil War on cattle herds, the growth of ranching after the war, the use of open range and squatting, and later laws about open ranges and branding. They then answer multiple-choice questions to check their understanding of why ranchers sold beef outside Texas, what happened to cattle during the Civil War, and what “open range” means.
Teacher MovesOptionally direct students to the article Cattle Ranchers for additional background. Clarify key terms such as open range, squatter, and maverick as students read. Review and discuss the multiple-choice questions, addressing any misunderstandings before proceeding.
Students read explanatory text and view images to learn how barbed wire and windmills changed ranching and the Texas frontier. They consider how barbed wire ended the open range, protected crops, and helped ranchers control breeding, and how windmills made it possible to ranch in dry areas and later to generate wind energy. Students then post to a class wall explaining one positive and one negative change that ranching had on the environment.
Teacher MovesGuide students through the explanations of barbed wire and windmills, emphasizing cause-and-effect relationships between these inventions, ranching practices, and environmental change. If students struggle with the wall prompt, model examples of positive and negative environmental impacts. Review student responses to highlight accurate ideas and prompt deeper thinking about human modification of the environment.
Students read selected lyrics from the song “The Farmer and the Cowman” from the musical Oklahoma! to explore tensions between farmers and ranchers. They post to a collaborative wall explaining why they think there was conflict between these groups, then review classmates’ posts and respond to at least two with a question or positive comment.
Teacher MovesSupport students in interpreting the song’s message about fences, land use, and competing needs of farmers and ranchers. Encourage them to connect the song’s conflict to what they have learned about open range, barbed wire, and settlement. Optionally extend the activity by having students write an additional verse that reflects the perspectives and voices of the groups involved.
Students complete the exit quiz by answering all the questions.
Teacher MovesFacilitate the assessment and use student data to evaluate understanding, address misconceptions, and identify areas for growth.
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