The Maine State Museum’s Bicentennial teaching materials allow students to explore Maine history online or in the classroom using Maine-based primary sources. Materials are inspired by the exhibit Regional Struggle, National Story: Maine’s Path to Statehood, although they are designed to stand alone.

To learn how to use these materials (in particular with distance learning), click here for a 2020 Maine Department of Education training webinar with our education staff. 

Bicentennial Primary Source Sets

Grades K-12

Materials include:

• A Teacher guide with recommendations for setting up the activity
• An introduction with thorough background information for teachers and students, as well as recommended reflection questions/learning goals
• Themed sets of Maine-based primary sources (documents, artifacts, and images)
• Analysis Worksheets to guide students through working with primary sources

Click here for Bicentennial Primary Source Sets

Defining Maine: Exploring Joseph Treat’s 1820 Journal and Map

Grades 8-12

Materials include:

• Teacher guides with instructions for the lessons
• A digital interactive map and journal of an 1820 trip through Maine woods and waters
• Worksheets with questions and prompts to guide students through the journey

Click here for Defining Maine