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High School Grade  Project 3 weeks

War Whispers: Civil War Chronicles!

Matt O
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.9-10.9
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.11-12.9
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.11-12.9
Identifying allies
Public policy
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to immerse students in the complexities of the U.S. Civil War through hands-on, project-based activities that emphasize critical analysis and historical inquiry. By engaging with primary source documents, conducting research, and creating documentary films, students will explore diverse perspectives and understand the multifaceted impact of the Civil War on American society. This approach aims to deepen their comprehension of historical events, enhance their analytical skills, and foster a connection between past and present societal issues.

Learning goals

Students will analyze primary source documents to understand diverse perspectives of the Civil War, evaluate key turning points, and explore alternative historical outcomes. They will investigate the impact of technological advancements and economic factors on the war, connecting these to contemporary issues. Through collaborative activities, students will map social and political changes post-war and produce a documentary film series, showcasing their research and insights on the Civil War's legacy.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.9-10.9 - Analyze seminal U.S. documents of historical and literary significance (e.g., Washington's Farewell Address, the Gettysburg Address, Roosevelt's Four Freedoms speech, King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail"), including how they address related themes and concepts.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.11-12.9 - Analyze seventeenth-, eighteenth-, and nineteenth-century foundational U.S. documents of historical and literary significance (including The Declaration of Independence, the Preamble to the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address) for their themes, purposes, and rhetorical features.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.11-12.9 - Demonstrate knowledge of eighteenth-, nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century foundational works of American literature, including how two or more texts from the same period treat similar themes or topics.
Competencies
  • Self-Advocacy - Identifying allies (LL.SD.3.a)
  • Governments - Public policy (FK.SS.1.c)
  • Politics - Influencing government (FK.SS.2.a)

Products

Students will create a documentary film series that captures diverse perspectives and experiences of the Civil War, culminating in a public screening event. They will also design and curate a virtual exhibit for a local museum, showcasing Civil War artifacts and documents with detailed explanations of their historical significance. Additionally, students will develop digital portfolios that document their research, reflections, and project artifacts, highlighting their academic and socio-emotional growth throughout the unit.

Launch

Initiate the unit with a 'Civil War Film Workshop,' where students dive into the basics of documentary filmmaking. Begin by having them storyboard and research their chosen Civil War perspectives or events, setting the stage for their film projects. This hands-on activity will spark curiosity and provide a creative framework for exploring the diverse narratives of the Civil War.

Exhibition

Host a 'Civil War Documentary Film Festival' where students showcase their documentary films, each exploring unique perspectives and experiences from the Civil War. Invite community members, local historians, and peers to attend the screening and participate in a Q&A session, allowing students to discuss their research and insights. This event will provide an opportunity for students to articulate their learning and engage with the audience on the historical significance of their projects.