The Civil War
In this exciting unit about the Civil War, you will read books, hide a message in bread like a spy, learn about a famous person and much more as you learn about the causes, battles and aftermath of the Civil War. You will create a character and try to stay alive as you participate in the major events of the war.
This unit is written to cover 16 school days with an optional 4 days to dig deeper on a Civil War topic of your choice.
You will need the required workbook and books below. In addition, you will also need to pick a historical fiction and biography to read while you study about the Civil War. We have a list to choose from, but you can always read a family favorite.
This curriculum is written with students 4th-8th grade in mind. You can always scale down to fit your needs, but we don't recommend trying to use it for high school age students.
Required Materials
Free!
Workbook
This workbook is written to the student. It will guide them through the daily reading and activities with minimal parent involvement.
Answer Key
The answer key is not necessary to complete the unit. It is identical to the Student workbook, but with answers in red.
This complete encyclopedia of American history showcases the incredible journey the United States of America has made to become the major 21st-century power it is today.
Every American History unit uses this encyclopedia.
With a topic on every page, Civil War Visual Encyclopedia tells the story of the war using simple explanations and stunning photographs. Profiles on decisive battles, strategic maps, political leaders, military commanders, naval vessels, uniforms, weapons, and equipment shine a light on the key events and other turning points during the five years of fighting.
From courageous cavalry rides deep into enemy territory to harrowing covert missions undertaken by spies and soldiers, the events of the American Civil War were filled with daring figures and amazing feats. This exhilarating overview covers the biggest battles as well as captivating lesser-known moments to entertain kids with unbelievable (and totally true) tales of one of America's most fascinating conflicts.
Students will be creating a biography poster. These premade templates are an excellent tool.
Every American History Unit will have a biography poster project.
Other supplies
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Historical Fiction from the list below
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Biography from the list below
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1 six-sided die
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Frozen rolls or ingredients to make bread (day 8)
Historical Fiction Options
You will read one historical fiction book for this unit. There are several great historical fiction books to choose from. Listed below are a few at different reading levels.
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I Survived Gettysburg (I Survived series)
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My Brother’s Keeper (Dear America Series)
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Big Bad Ironclad (Nathan Hale series)
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The Last Brother by Trinka Nobel (Tales of Young Americans Series)
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Bull Run by Paul Fleischman
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Calico Girl by Jerdine Nolen
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Like a River by Kathy Weichman
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The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg by Rodman Philbrick
Biography Options
There are many notable people who were involved in the Civil War. Below is a list you can choose from. These men and women all have several age appropriate biographies written about them. Choose one that interests you.
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John Lincoln Clem: A drummer boy
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Harriet Tubman: A former slave who helped others escape
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Ulysses S. Grant: A Union General
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Robert E Lee: A Confederate General
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Fredrick Douglass: An escaped slave who advocated for others
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Clara Barton: a nurse in the war; founded the Red Cross
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Abraham Lincoln: The President of the Union
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Jefferson Davis: the President of the Confederates
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Emma Edmunds: A woman who dressed as a man to fight