Preparation

Print out class copies of the following:

• Chapter VIII: Perplexity
• Primary Source Materials for Little Falls, New York (both gallery page and pages with larger images, as needed)

Lesson

In this challenging chapter, Forester is "perplexed" about the flow of the water in the aqueduct. The chapter also contains accounts of feeder canals and the old locks in Little Falls.

1. Read aloud in class Chapter VIII
of Marco Paul's Travels on the Erie Canal.
2. Have the class examine engravings and photos of the Little Falls aqueduct and maps of Little Falls during this time period.
3. After classroom discussion, students answer the following questions in their journals.

Response Journal Questions

1. Describe two things that Marco found especially interesting in Little Falls.
2. What is "perplexity"?
3. Why was Forester perplexed?

Overview  |  Teacher's Guide