Civil War Soldiers
Grade 5
Kelly Schafer
Central Michigan University


Civil War Soldier



Michigan Curriculum Framework for Social Studies

Introduction
Have you ever wondered what it was like to be a soldier during the Civil War? Well, today you can find out! Come take a journey to learn more about the lives of these interesting, brave soldiers. During this journey, you will be asked to answer questions, go on a treasure hunt, and write a letter home as if you were a Civil War soldier.


Task

Answer the following questions to help you complete this project.
1. What are the similarities and differences between the Union and the Confederacy?
2. How would you describe a typical day for a Civil War soldier?
3. Which Civil War leader would you rather be a soldier under?


Process

Students will work individually to answer the questions and write their letter.
 
Resources Behind the Blue and Gray: The Soldier's Life in the Civil War by Delia Ray

Treasure Hunt

        1. What were the Confederacy and the Union?
        2. What are the similarities and differences between Confederate soldiers and Union soldiers?
        3. How would you describe the life of a Confederate soldier and a Union soldier?
        4. What is your opinion on who had it worse during the Civil War?
 
 

Evaluation

 
Activities
Excellent
Satisfactory
Needs Improvement
Task Questions Complete sentences, supported with evidence, related to the question, with all correct answers. Complete sentences, related to the question, with all correct answers. Complete sentences, with all correct answers.
Treasure Hunt Questions Complete sentences, supported with evidence, related to the question, with all correct answers. Complete sentences, related to the question, with all correct answers. Complete sentences, with all correct answers.
Create A Letter Proper letter format, historically accurate, creative and original.  Proper letter format, creative and original. Proper letter format.

Conclusion

By taking this journey you were able to explore their lives of Civil War soldiers and see the similarities and differences between Confederate and Union soldiers. During this project you answered questions regarding the lives of Civil War Soldiers and you wrote a letter home as if you were a Civil War soldier. In addition, this journey helped you increase your knowledge of the Civil War and the soldiers that fought in it.