Lesson Plan

Carroll Homestead: Lessons from 19th century farmlife in Maine

a grey house in the woods

Carroll Homestead

NPS Photo

Grade Level:
Middle School: Sixth Grade through Eighth Grade
Subject:
Social Studies
Lesson Duration:
90 Minutes

Essential Question

In what way can examining the lives of the generations of Carrolls living in the “Mountain House” serve as a window into the transition between subsistence and modernity?

Objective

Students will learn about how the past informs and enlightens our understanding of the present.

Focus Questions:
1. What are some ways historians learn about the past?
2. What defines a subsistence life-style and how does it differ from “modern” living?
3. How can we preserve the past for future generations?

Background

Read Carroll Homestead Articles

  • Article One
  • Article Two
  • Optional: Visit the One Room Schoolhouse museum's website for more information on early schooling
Read Teacher's Field Trip Guide and the Caroll Homstead Field Trip Guide

Preparation

read Field Trip guide

Procedure

Step One: Complete the following student activities

  • Activity One: Museum Object Photo Gallery Investigation
  • Activity Two: Read Carroll Homestead articles
  • Activity Three: What Defines Subsistance Living?

Contact Information

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Tags: farming farm life history homestead 19th century carroll family carroll homestead

Last updated: May 27, 2026