Lesson Description:

To begin the storypath the students need to create a character from the late 1800's. These characters will go on the journey to the Klondike gold fields. Using the Miner's License, students will create an identification card that will help the students develop their character. The Miner's License also allows classmates to learn about the other's characters.

1. Pass out the Miner's License. Explain to the students that they will be creating a character who will join the Stampeders to seek their fortune in the Yukon territory. The licenses are required for the trip through Canada to reach the Klondike region (this is not historical accuracy---Stampeders were not required to submit a mining license---but it allows students to fully develop their characters). Have the students think back on the real Stampeders whom they learned about in the previous lesson. Remind the kids that the people who participated in the stampede came from all parts of the world, were of different ages and genders. Some traveled with family members, with business partners, and pets. Some wanted the gold while others sought out business opportunities, legal or otherwise, and adventure. Share the student samples, which are included, to help your students understand what is expected.

The "Statement of Intent" is an important part of the license because is requires the students to think about the pushes and pulls that caused their character to become a Stampeder. Students may need to be reminded of the pushes and pulls that affected the real life Stampeders in the biographies they read earlier.

2. Have students work on the licenses. Encourage students to move around room and perhaps build partnerships with other Stampeders.

TEACHER NOTES: Have your students first create a draft. Give the student their licenses after the draft is proof read. You may want to have the licenses written in black pen for the final publication. Mounting the licenses on black construction paper and posting them in the room help the students learn about the other characters.

Some teachers prefer to copy the statement of intent on the backside of the license.

Lesson 5

Title: Miner's License

Objectives: To create a character who will take the journey to the Yukon territory; To have students become personally invested in the storypath.

Materials:
Miner's License (PDF)
Student samples of Miner's License (PDF)
Black pens

Time: 45 minutes

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