American Civil War & Reconstruction (US History #3)
In this four week class, students will delve into the American Civil War and the era of Reconstruction that followed. We will begin with the 1850s and end at the 1876 Presidential election.
Caitlyn Jacobs, M.A.
Average rating:
4.3
Number of reviews:(9)
What's included
4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentClass Experience
This course explores the pivotal events and themes of the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. Students will investigate the causes of the war, including sectionalism and slavery, and analyze key battles and turning points, particularly those in 1863. The class will also examine the early emancipation efforts and their impact on society. Additionally, students will explore the challenges of Reconstruction, including the social and political changes that shaped the post-war United States. Through discussions, readings, and engaging activities, students will develop a deeper understanding of this crucial period in American history and its lasting effects on the nation.
Learning Goals
Understand What Started the War: Students will learn about the main reasons why the Civil War happened, like differences between the North and South, and how these reasons led to the war.Learn About Important Battles: Students will explore important battles and events from the Civil War, especially in 1863, and discover why they were big turning points in the fight. They’ll also learn about how the Emancipation Proclamation changed things
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Causes of Division
This week, the class will focus on the causes of the Civil War, with a particular emphasis on the growing sectionalism in the United States during the period. We'll explore how deep divisions between the North and South—especially regarding issues like slavery, economic differences, and political power—escalated tensions. Students will learn about key events and ideologies that contributed to the conflict, such as the Missouri Compromise, the Kansas-Nebraska Act, and the Dred Scott decision. Lesson 2:
Major Events of War
The second week will focus on the major events and battles of the Civil War. Students will learn about the early conflicts, including the First Battle of Bull Run and the Battle of Antietam, and discuss key military leaders and strategies employed by both the Union and Confederate armies. The week will also cover significant turning points in the war, such as the Emancipation Proclamation, and the impact of these events on the course of the conflict. Lesson 3:
Turning Points in 1863 and Early Emancipation
In the third week, the class will concentrate on the pivotal events of 1863 that marked a turning point in the Civil War. Key topics will include the Battles of Gettysburg and Vicksburg, which significantly shifted the momentum in favor of the Union. Students will explore how these victories affected military strategy and morale. Additionally, the week will delve into the early emancipation efforts, particularly the impact of the Emancipation Proclamation. Lesson 4:
Reconstruction and Its Challenges
In the final week, the focus will shift to the Reconstruction era following the Civil War. Students will analyze the efforts to rebuild the South and integrate formerly enslaved people into society. The week will cover the establishment of the Freedmen’s Bureau, the passage of the Reconstruction Amendments (13th, 14th, and 15th), and the resistance faced by these efforts, including the rise of Jim Crow laws and white supremacist groups. Other Details
Parental Guidance
Potentially Upsetting Content
Slavery and Racial Violence: Discussions about slavery, including the brutal treatment of enslaved individuals, and the violence associated with it may be upsetting. Students may encounter graphic descriptions of abuse and dehumanization, which can be distressing.
War and Battle Casualties: Learning about the Civil War’s battles may involve discussing casualties, injuries, and the harsh realities of war. The impact of death and suffering on soldiers and civilians can be a heavy topic.
Emancipation and Resistance: The experiences of formerly enslaved people during and after the Civil War may include themes of resistance, struggle, and the ongoing fight for civil rights. This history can evoke strong emotions.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
The American YAWP Primary Source Reader
Abraham Lincoln and Civil War America
Online American History Textbooks (OpenStax & American Yawp)
Joined April, 2020
4.3
9reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Oklahoma Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Master's Degree in History from University of Central Oklahoma
Hey there! 👋 I'm Miss Caitlyn, and history is my ultimate passion! 📚 Back in 2020, I started my journey on Outschool, teaching three awesome classes on women's history (they're still available, by the way!). Since then, I've earned my Master's degree, in history of course, and spent two years teaching middle school social studies.
For the past year, I've been diving into the world of online teaching and tutoring, working with students from all over the map 🌍 to help them conquer history, ace their exams, and breeze through homework assignments. Whether you're in the US or halfway across the globe, I'm here to help you reach your historical goals!
On Outschool, you'll find a variety of options to suit your learning style – from one-time courses to ten-week group sessions and self-paced adventures. 🚀 So if you're ready to embark on a journey through the annals of time, reach out and let's make history together! 🌟Reviews
Self-Paced Class
$10
weekly or $40 for all content4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Choose your start date
Ages: 10-14
