Students learn about the Conventions of 1832 and 1833 and the resolutions passed by each group. Then, they explore the arrest of Stephen F. Austin by the Mexican government and write a letter in his defense.
Students learn about the Conventions of 1832 and 1833 and the resolutions passed by each group. Then, they explore the arrest of Stephen F. Austin by the Mexican government and write a letter in his defense.
Students view an image and a Texas map from 1821–1836, then read a brief introduction explaining that Anglo Texas settlers organized the Convention of 1832 in San Felipe. Working individually, they post to a collaborative wall by drafting a possible agenda for the Convention of 1832, identifying problems they think representatives wanted to resolve.
Teacher MovesIntroduce the experience and review the lesson objectives. Facilitate a brief discussion by inviting volunteers to share their proposed agenda items, highlighting themes such as slavery, immigration, separation from Mexico, and support for the Constitution of 1824. Organize students into small groups for upcoming scenes and unlock the next scene when groups are ready.
Students read background text about the purpose and structure of the Convention of 1832, including the roles of Stephen F. Austin and William H. Wharton, and then read about the Convention of 1832 in more depth. In small groups, they complete a concept-map graphic organizer summarizing the resolutions adopted at the convention. Afterward, they answer a poll question about the outcome of the Convention of 1832.
Teacher MovesClarify the context and goals of the Convention of 1832 as needed. Support groups as they identify and record key resolutions, prompting them to include economic, land, education, and security issues. Use the poll results to check understanding of the convention’s outcome and correct misconceptions before moving on, then unlock the next scene.
Students read an explanation of why delegates reconvened for the Convention of 1833, who attended, and who presided, then read about the Convention of 1833 and discuss the article in their small groups. They collaboratively complete a table listing the resolutions passed at the Convention of 1833 and then respond to a poll about how the Texans chose to present their petitions to the Mexican government.
Teacher MovesGuide students in comparing the Conventions of 1832 and 1833, emphasizing continuity and changes in the delegates’ demands. Provide feedback on group lists of resolutions, ensuring they capture key reforms such as immigration, defense, judicial changes, mail service, tariffs, and the proposal for separate statehood. Review poll responses to reinforce how Austin went to Mexico to present the petition, and then unlock the next scene.
Students read about Stephen F. Austin’s journey to Mexico to present the petitions from the Convention of 1833 and then read Stephen Austin Imprisoned by Mexicans and Stephen F. Austin to learn how and why he was arrested. In small groups, they complete a graphic organizer explaining the reasons for Austin’s arrest and the circumstances surrounding it. Students then read an excerpt from Austin’s letter to George Fisher and, as a group, compose a letter to Mexican authorities defending Austin and explaining how his arrest affects their views of relations between Texas and the Mexican government. Finally, they review other groups’ letters and respond to at least two with a question or positive comment.
Teacher MovesSupport students in extracting key details from the readings about Austin’s mission, arrest, and imprisonment, and how these events influenced tensions between Texas settlers and the Mexican government. Encourage groups to use evidence from the texts and Austin’s own words when drafting their letters. Monitor online discussion as students comment on peers’ letters, prompting respectful dialogue and deeper reflection on changing relations with Mexico. When group work is complete, prepare students to transition to the individual assessment and unlock the next scene.
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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