Cattle in Texas

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.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

Overview

In this experience, 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.

If you have access to leveled readers about ranchers or longhorns, assign them to the students in parallel to this experience.

Estimated duration: 35-45 minutes

Discovery Reading

A printable Discovery Reading is included in the student pack as a support for understanding the experience’s core content and concepts. This Discovery Reading is not necessary to complete the experience and serves as an optional support resource.

Vocabulary Words:

These vocabulary words are used in the experience or connect closely to the standards and content students examine. Students should understand these terms as they work through the experience.

cattle ranching: the business of raising cattle on ranches for beef and other products in Texas.
Texas longhorn: a breed of cattle created when Spanish cattle mixed with English cattle and adapted well to Texas weather and plants.
open range: unfenced land where cattle could roam and graze freely.
brand: a mark placed on cattle to show who owns them.
barbed wire: wire with sharp points used for fencing land; it helped end the open range in Texas.
windmill: a machine that uses wind power to pump water from underground so cattle can be raised in dry areas.
maverick: an unbranded cow that could be claimed by any rancher who caught it.

Objective

Identify important events and people surrounding the history of cattle ranching.

Engage

Many people across the United States and around the world associate Texas with cowboys and ranches. In this lesson, you will learn about the history of cattle in Texas.

Objective

Identify important events and people surrounding the history of cattle ranching.

Texas longhorns on the open range

In a word or short phrase, post what you think of when you hear the word cow.

Post your answer

Give students a few minutes and then ask students what they notice about the words they used. What similarities and differences they see. And what their words might reveal about cattle in Texas.

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.