• The Cherokee people are walking long distances by foot and in wagons.
• There is snow on the ground, indicating harsh winter conditions.
• U.S. soldiers are shown accompanying or overseeing the group.
• Families, including children and elders, are part of the journey.
• The people appear tired, sad, or in distress.

EXTENDING THE DISCUSSION
After the observational question, randomly call on one or more students to share what they or their partner answered. Then ask the class, “Did anyone notice…?” using the suggestions above or anything else you’ve noticed.

• Why were the Cherokee forced to leave their homes?
• What role did the government or soldiers play in this event?
• How far did the Cherokee have to travel?
• What happened to these people after the journey?
• Did anyone try to stop or protest the removal?

EXTENDING THE DISCUSSION
After students have shared what they notice, ask the class, “Did anyone wonder…?” using the suggestions above or anything else you might think is interesting or relevant to the lesson.

To the observational question, How did the Trail of Tears occur?

LOW-LEVEL

This image shows Cherokee people walking through the snow with soldiers watching them.

HIGH-LEVEL

This image shows the forced removal of the Cherokee people during the Trail of Tears, where they were made to travel in harsh winter conditions under military supervision.

RESPONDING TO RESPONSES
Emphasize and celebrate each student’s use of the key vocabulary to support a culture of “no wrong answers.”