Students will collaborate in small groups to research the day-to-day lives, natural resources, and geographic influences of the 13 colonies, using this information to create empathy maps that capture the perspectives and experiences of colonial inhabitants.

Students will collaboratively synthesize their initial research on the 13 colonies to develop a clear problem statement, examining how geographical and natural resources influenced the development and interactions within the colonies, and prepare to present their findings through a shared class discussion.

Students will brainstorm imaginative solutions to enhance colonial life by analyzing geographical maps and creating sketches that display new, resource-based town designs and possible inter-colony trade routes.

Students will construct three-dimensional models of colonial towns incorporating maps and local natural resources, collaboratively annotate their models highlighting geographic influences on community development, and practice presenting their findings through an oral presentation to the class.

Students will present their clay models and annotated maps to classmates and invited guests, explaining how each colony's geography shaped its lifestyle and development, and reflect on the emotional responses elicited by imagining life in colonial times.