Today, families are often separated by great distances. Using a current map, ask students to mark where the various members of their family live. There were many difficulties, obstacles, and dangers faced by people as they traveled into unfamiliar territory. Have students locate examples of these perils from The Divide . Ask students how traveling today differs from traveling in the pioneer days.
Students can chart weekly observations about the growth and health of their plants.
Lead them in a discussion of the results of their observations. Willa Cather moves to the Divide at the age of 9. She carries with her a box of treasures, which include a scrapbook in which she saves important mementos from her old home. Have students assemble a scrapbook in which to record their memories. Students can accumulate additional art and writing activities in these scrapbooks over the course of the school year as well.