Each year, students in Mrs. DelToro’s Kansas History class select one of the 105 Kansas counties to research and learn more about from when the county was first established to how it has grown and changed over time. Students then create a pictograph map featuring symbols and designs that represent important information about their county, including: year established, county seat, population changes, largest city, industries, major attractions, how the county got its name, and other interesting historical facts connected to Kansas history.
This year, students also researched and included which original Native American tribe was located in their county.
In past years, Mrs. DelToro checked out a large floor map of Kansas from the Kansas Geographic Alliance. This year, however, she was excited to add an official floor map of all 105 Kansas counties to the classroom through a financial gift from Holton VFW Post 1367 and the Department of Kansas District 1 after being recognized as their Teacher of the Year.
Mrs. DelToro shared, “I have wanted to add this learning resource to our Kansas History classroom for quite some time, and because of this recognition, I was finally able to do so. I am very thankful for both the honor and the classroom contribution.”
At the end of the unit, students compete in a timed Kansas Counties Quiz, where they attempt to correctly identify all 105 Kansas counties as quickly as possible. The challenge lasts 11 minutes, and the student with the best time earns a Sonic gift card and 10 extra credit points.
Congratulations to Sobie Scates, who correctly identified all 105 counties in just 7 minutes and 58 seconds! Ashlyn Reaves finished only one second behind while also correctly identifying all 105 counties. Great job to all of the 7th grade students for their hard work and participation in this fun and educational competition!
