Which activity would best demonstrate critical thinking after a unit on westward expansion for eighth-grade students?

The activity involving the investigation of the relationship between Manifest Destiny and westward growth is an exemplary demonstration of critical thinking. This task requires students to analyze and synthesize different pieces of information, making connections between the ideological concept of Manifest Destiny and the historical implications of westward expansion.

Engaging with this question prompts students to evaluate the motivations behind westward expansion, consider historical perspectives, and understand the broader social and political impacts. This analysis encourages deeper inquiry, as students must not only recall facts but also critically assess the significance of Manifest Destiny in shaping U.S. history.

In contrast, while explaining major issues or events of the Mexican War, writing a composition about westward expansion, or identifying areas acquired to form the United States are important tasks, they primarily focus on recalling information or summarizing content, which does not challenge students to the same extent or promote the same level of analytical thinking as investigating the relationship between these two concepts.