The Lewis and Clark Expedition was one of the most important explorations in American history. Commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson after the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the expedition set out to explore the vast new territory and find a water route to the Pacific Ocean. Led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, the journey began in May 1804 and lasted over two years, covering nearly 8,000 miles.
The expedition had several goals: to map the land, establish trade with Native American tribes, study the region’s plants and animals, and assert U.S. presence in the newly acquired territory. Along the way, the team faced difficult terrain, harsh weather, and unknown dangers, but also formed key alliances with Native American groups, including the Shoshone woman Sacagawea who served as guide and interpreter.
By the time they returned in 1806, Lewis and Clark had gathered a wealth of scientific data, drawn detailed maps, and opened the door to westward expansion. Their journey remains a symbol of American exploration and determination.
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Lewis and Clark Interactive Tour
This awesome tour takes students on a page-by-page adventure with Lewis, Clark, and Sacagawea, from Missouri to the Pacific Coast. |
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Lewis and Clark Click and Learn Map and Scavenger Hunt
This module allows students to click on various points on the Lewis and Clark Route Map to learn about their observations, cricumstances, and strategies . |
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Lewis and Clark Expedition Biographies
The Lewis and Clark Expedition was more than just a journey of discovery—it was a team effort made possible by a diverse group of individuals, each playing a vital role. From skilled leaders and brave soldiers to Native American guides and interpreters, every member of the Corps of Discovery contributed to the success of the mission.
In this section, you’ll find biographies of the key figures who shaped the expedition, including Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, Sacagawea, and others.
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Adventures Through the Lives and Times of Lewis and Clark
In these interactive stories, students travel through key moments and settings in the expedition, guided by their words and experiences. At each historic location, they explore illustrated scenes, read narrated passages, and answer thoughtful comprehension questions to track their progress. When all sites are visited, students receive a printable score report showing their journey the unchartered West. |
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Louisiana Purchase
The Louisiana Purchase was a land deal in 1803 in which the United States bought 800,000 square miles of territory from France for $15 million, effectively doubling the size of the nation. It gave the U.S. control of the Mississippi River and opened the door for westward expansion. |
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Lewis and Clark Literacy and Comprehension Activities
This section contains dozens of integrated literacy and comprehension activities that come in both printable and online form. You can use these as morning work, in reading groups, as enrichment, or as reinforcement in your social studies lessons. |
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Lewis and Clark Writing Activities
This section features some really awesome writing prompts and activities which allow students to relate to the experiences of Lewis and Clark. Some examples include Dynamic Duos, Unusng Heroes, and the Climb. These are perfect for writing workshops, for peer editing, sharing, interactive notebooks, or, for displaying in the classroom or hallways. |
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Lewis and Clark Fun Activities
The Lewis and Clark Adventure affords lot of opportunities for learning, but it also allows for fun. This section includes fun Lewis and Clark-themed activities such as word searches, coloring pages, correct-me passages, label-me maps, and scavenger hunts. |
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Primary Source Analysis: Exceprts from the Journal of Meriwether Lewis
The Lewis and Clark expedition resulted in the discovery or observation of more than 300 plants and animals. This section includes Lewis's journal notes on some of them including his encounters with a grizzly bear and mountain lion. It also includes an interactive scavenger hunt. How many misspellings can you find? |
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Lewis and Clark - Bundles and Plans
This section includes four hours worth of continuous lessons and activities related to the Louis and Clark Expedition. It also includes a Thomas Jefferson activity bundle, which features all of the site's printable Thomas Jefferson activities. |
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