Creator: National Endowment for the Humanities | visit site
Grade Range: 6 - 11
Get inside of the mind of our sixteenth president with this thoughtful lesson plan that analyzes the complex factors that led to the Civil War. Using primary source documents, students become part of the decision-making process as they consider the critical issues that faced the nation as Lincoln came into office, debate the risks and benefits of withdrawing Union troops from Fort Sumter, and investigate the Confederate reaction to Lincoln’s ultimate decision. Students take on the roles of Secessionists, Non-Secessionists, Unionists, Abolitionists, or Compromise Proponents. This lesson is aligned to National Standards.
In the Classroom
This lesson plan is ready to go and offers step by step instructions! Divide your class into five groups (based on the roles listed above). Allow them time to research and prepare for the debate. Consider having students tape the debate using YouTube or <a href=" /single.cfm?id=9419">TeacherTube (explained here)</a>. Why not have each group (or student) write a blog defending their position (role).
At Home
Tags
states, slavery, lincoln, debate, civil war,
Subjects
American History, English, Government/Civics: U.S, Language Arts, Social Studies, Social Studies, Writing,