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Progressive Era Project

An old steam locamotive pulls train cars behind it.
For this lesson, you will continue your research of the Progressive Era and create a detailed Microsoft® PowerPoint presentation on that topic. You will submit the final version of your presentation as a portfolio at the end of this lesson.

Objectives
Academic: Analyze and research reforms of the Progressive Era
Academic: Create a concept map based on research about a Progressive Era topic
Technology: Search for historical prints and photographs using the Library of Congress database
Technology: Construct a presentation about the Progressive Era incorporating slide transitions and animations
Portfolio Instructions
Model T Ford in the snow
For your portfolio item, you will conduct research into the Progressive Era topic you selected, search for and download images associated with that topic from the Library of Congress, and create a Microsoft® PowerPoint presentation that includes SmartArt, Action buttons, slide transitions, text boxes, and animations. You will have the option to convert this presentation into a video that includes slide transitions and animations. You will submit the final presentation as a portfolio item.

Follow the instructions below to create your presentation.

Step 1: Research your Progressive Era topic:

Click on the link below to view the Progressive Era to New Era, 1900–1929 page from the Library of Congress website. From there, click on the link for your topic in the list at that left.

Mouse icon Progressive Era to New Era, 1900–1929
Read about your topic, noting information to include in your presentation. Click on the links under the Documents heading at the bottom of the page for interesting supporting documents.
Step 2: Search for and download images related to your topic through the Library of Congress pictures database:

Click on the link below to access the Prints & Photographs Online Catalog page from the Library of Congress website.
Mouse icon Prints & Photographs Online Catalog

Enter search terms relevant to your topic in the search box, and then click on GO to see the images.
Scroll through the images to find relevant examples. Then download and save them as JPEGs, just as you did in Lesson 3.
Download at least three images to include in your presentation.

1 answer

Progressive Era Project: PowerPoint Presentation Guidelines

Presentation Overview

Your presentation will delve into an aspect of the Progressive Era, highlighting key reforms, figures, and impacts during this transformative period in American history. Ensure that your final submission is visually engaging and well-structured.

Step 1: Research Your Progressive Era Topic

Instructions:

  1. Access the Progressive Era to New Era, 1900–1929 page from the Library of Congress.
  2. Select your specific topic—this might be related to social reform, labor rights, women's suffrage, or another significant movement within the Progressive Era.
  3. Gather critical information, including:
    • Overview of the topic.
    • Key figures involved (e.g., activists, politicians).
    • Major legislation or reforms associated with the topic.
    • Lasting impacts or changes that resulted from these reforms.
  4. Also, explore supporting documents found under the Documents heading for more detailed insights.

Step 2: Download Images from the Library of Congress

Instructions:

  1. Visit the Prints & Photographs Online Catalog on the Library of Congress website.
  2. Use specific search terms related to your topic, such as "women's suffrage," "labor movement," or "Progressive reforms."
  3. Browse through the search results for images that represent your chosen topic, paying attention to:
    • Historical relevance.
    • Visual impact.
    • Quality of the images.
  4. Download at least three images in JPEG format for inclusion in your presentation.

Step 3: Create Your Microsoft PowerPoint Presentation

Presentation Structure:

  1. Title Slide:

    • Title of your presentation (Your Topic).
    • Your name.
    • Date.

  2. Introduction Slide:

    • Brief explanation of the Progressive Era.
    • Importance of your specific topic within this context.

  3. Key Reforms and Impacts Slides:

    • Slide 1: Overview of key reforms related to your topic.
    • Slide 2: Discussion of prominent figures involved.
    • Slide 3: Description of major legislative changes.
    • Slide 4: Lasting impacts on American society.

  4. Supporting Images:

    • Add downloaded images strategically throughout your slides to enhance visual understanding.
    • Each image should have a caption explaining its relevance.

  5. Conclusion Slide:

    • Recap the significance of your topic.
    • How it reflects the spirit of the Progressive Era and its relevance today.

  6. References Slide:

    • Cite any sources or documents you used for your research.
    • Include the Library of Congress URL for the images.

Step 4: Enhance Your Presentation

  1. SmartArt:

    • Use SmartArt graphics to illustrate concepts and processes effectively, particularly for timelines or relationships between figures.

  2. Animations and Transitions:

    • Apply animations to key points for emphasis (e.g., fade in/out).
    • Use slide transitions to create a smooth flow between slides.

  3. Action Buttons:

    • Optional: Add action buttons for navigation (for example, "Go to References" or to return to the main menu slide).

  4. Text Boxes:

    • Use text boxes for highlighting key facts or quotes.

Step 5: Optional: Convert to Video

If you choose to convert your presentation into a video, ensure that:

  • All slide transitions and animations are functioning as intended.
  • The timing aligns correctly with how you want to narrate the presentation.

Final Submission

  • Review your presentation for clarity, spelling, and grammar.
  • Save your PowerPoint file and, if applicable, the video file.
  • Submit your final presentation as required for your portfolio.

This structured approach will not only help you create a comprehensive and engaging presentation but also deepen your understanding of the significant reforms and cultural shifts during the Progressive Era. Good luck with your project!