It is the late 1800's and Russia is beginning a period of economic growth and development under the influence of Count Witte and Tsar Nicholas the second, who took over the rule of Russia in 1894.
One of the problems faced by Russia was that the town of Vladivostock, developed in 1860, needed supplies and goods to reach it throughout the year. Vladivostock, which was on the far eastern coast of Russia, was the only port which was free of ice during winter. A train line which could reach from St Petersburg to Vladivostock would help build Vladivostcok into an important city, and also an important base for navy and trading ships to use all year round.
Another problem was that travel through the enormous area covered by Siberia was difficult, and Russian leadership wanted to make sure that they could keep control of this large area of land. Although not many people lived in Siberia, it was still an important area to control. A railway line which crossed Siberia would help Russia to keep control of the area, and help it develop and grow. And so began an ambitious plan to build a railway which stretched 10 000 km from Vladivostok on the eastern coast to St Petersberg in the west. The journey could be done in 16 days.
Try these simple activities to help students build a greater understanding of the Trans Siberian:
Language - learn a few words of Russian - ask a Russian speaker to visit class, use a translation site such as Babelfish http://babelfish.yahoo.com/ , an electronic translator such as those found at http://www.doorone.com.au/xGS-English_Russian~NS-1~linkin_id-8009854 or visit the library and find an English to Russian dictionary.
Arts - make a model of the trans siberian railway using match sticks, papier mache, paint and cardboard.
History - make a timeline showing the development of the railway and its influence on Russia's development
Culture - learn about Russian culture; find out about dress, food, clothing and politics. Make a poster, Powerpoint display or give a presentation about an aspect of Russian lifestyle.
Geography - do a research project on the geography of Russia, and how the railway helped modernise and shape such a massive and varied landscape
Values and personal reflection - write a diary entry sequence for a convict working on the railway in the late 1800's. How do you feel? What do you see and hear around you? What do you think about your lot in life? What are your hopes and dreams for the future?