Since this is a class project, you'll need a large time line. Use a blank wall or bulletin board to create a blank time line by stretching and attaching a streamer to the surface. Prepare small strips of streamer that can be attached at the various points of interest at a later point in the project.
Conduct a class discussion pertaining to some of the most important highlights of Amelia Earhart's life. This discussion should include her birth in 1897, her first flying lesson in 1921, her first flying record in 1922, her trip across the Atlantic in 1928, her first attempt to fly around the world in 1937, her disappearance in 1937, the pronouncement of her death in 1939 and any other events you think are noteworthy or relative to your particular study. You may also want to mention non-flight related dates such as her marriage and her service as a World War I nurse. List the dates and events on the chalkboard.
Conduct a similar discussion on world events that took place during Earhart's lifetime. These events will help give context to the time line and will aid students in gaining a better overview of the obstacles Earhart faced during her life. Obviously, World War I played a vital role in her life, as did the successful flight of Charles Lindbergh. Encourage the students to recall other events they have studied that may have had an impact on Earhart's life. List all the dates and events on the chalkboard.
Assign one event from one of the two categories to each student and instruct them to research their events and write short summaries on a sheet of notebook paper. A single paragraph is sufficient provided it contains the pertinent information such as names, dates and locations. While the students are working, use the information you gained during your class discussion to complete the base time line by writing the dates on your streamer strips and attaching them at the appropriate intervals perpendicular to the line.
When the students have completed their summaries, allow them to read the information to the class and then affix their paper at the proper place on the time line. When the time line is complete, have the students line up behind you and follow you down the length of the time line as you relate each event, much like a tour guide in a museum. Leave the time line up for several weeks and refer to it anytime you discuss a corresponding date or event. This adds both depth and perspective to the study of Amelia Earhart.