Whispers of the Dust Bowl

Worksheet Description

The worksheet features a historical fiction story set during the challenging times of the Dust Bowl in the Great Plains. It follows the Johnson family’s struggle for survival against severe dust storms that ravaged their farm and threatened their way of life in Oklahoma. Despite facing overwhelming adversity, including the desolation of their farm and the broader economic despair, the family perseveres, holding on to hope and the strength of their familial bonds. Their journey eventually leads them to take part in a government relocation program, offering a chance to start anew in California.

The story is designed to teach students about the Dust Bowl era’s environmental and economic hardships and their impact on American families. It highlights the resilience and determination required to overcome such significant adversities. Through the Johnsons’ experience, the narrative aims to impart a sense of history regarding the migration patterns during the 1930s and the role of government assistance programs. Moreover, the story serves to enhance students’ empathy and understanding of the human aspects of historical events.