Mr. Alexander Branigan and Mr. Thomas Worthington--Social Studies Department--Industrial Revolution Project

Thomas A. Edison in his laboratory (New Jersey, 1901)

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The industrial revolution was one the most influential periods in American history.  One reason (among many) for this was the rapid technological advancement that helped define the period.  Many of the technologies and conveniences that are the foundation of modern society have some roots in the industrial revolution. 

For this project, you will be asked to work in groups of 2-3 prepare a presentation to give to your classmates on an invention of the industrial revolution in America.  Your project can take any of the following formats:

(1)  A five minute lecture with an accompanying PowerPoint presentation or other visuals that explains to your class what your invention is, why it was important, and how it changed America.

(2)  A drawing, painting, comic book, etc. depicting what your invention is, why it was important, and how it changed America. In addition, you will need to write a two page paper explaining your work and present it to the class.

(3)  A 4-5 page paper explaining what your invention is, why it was important, and how it changed America with a two minute presentation of your paper to the class.

(4)  A five minute long video skit or acting performance depicting what your invention is, why it was important, and how it changed America.     

If you wish to get more creative and have an idea of something you might like to do instead of what is listed here, you may discuss it with Mr. Branigan or Mr. Worthington.

Your presentation can be on any of the following topics.  However, your topic must be cleared with the teacher before you can begin working on it.  In addition, you can choose topics not listed on here if you ask the teacher first:

The telephone, the telegraph, the typewriter, the subway, public streetcars, electricity/the light bulb, the automobile, railroads, the airplane, the Bessemer process, the phonograph, the camera…

Your work will be judged based on creativity, effort/completeness, historical accuracy, and historical content.  See the rubric for more details.  Above all, be creative, choose a topic you are interested in, and have fun!