History Resource Cupboard – lessons and resources for schools

History Resource Cupboard - lessons and resources for schools

Why was Peter French murdered on his ranch – and how did his murderer evade justice?

This enquiry uses a mystery approach to develop students’ understanding of the rivalry between ranchers and homesteaders in the years following the westward migration in the mid-19th century.

It follows the story of rancher Peter French, who was murdered after a dispute with homesteader Ed Oliver.

Students use a series of clues to build up a picture of French’s murder, refining their predictions about the reasons for French’s murder as they move through the enquiry.

Finally, students complete an exam style question, using knowledge they have gathered during this enquiry and in previous enquiries. 

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  • Lesson presentation: PowerPoint
  • Lesson write-up:PDF
  • Resources 1 and 2: PDF
  • Worksheet 1: PDF

Price: £12.99

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