Parent Guide > Out Where the West Begins

This week in class, we’re reading "Out Where the West Begins" by Arthur Chapman.

Arthur Chapman was an American journalist who wrote the imagery-laden poem "Out Where The West Begins" in 1917, in response to some Western governors who were having a dispute over which American states should be considered "the West."

As we read, we will be discussing the theme of America as it relates to the text. We are trying to answer this big question :

"How has America changed over time?"

Ways to support your child:

• Ask your child about this poem at home:
  • What was "Out Where the West Begins" about?
  • What did you learn about America?
• Watch the following clips with your child at home:
  • 'Moving Onto the Plains: Pioneers Go West'
  • 'Oregon Trail: Part 1'