US History - Causes of the Civil War

This lesson examines the causes of the US Civil War, which was fought from 1861 to 1865. Students will learn about the key factors that led to the conflict, including slavery, states’ rights, economic differences, and sectionalism. Activities include video analysis, timeline sorting, guided reading, and writing PEEKA paragraphs. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the outcomes of the war and its lasting impact on American society.

Lesson Content and Activities:

Introduction:
Discuss the US Civil War and its significance in American history.
Introduce today’s keywords: Slavery, States’ Rights, Economic Differences, Sectionalism, Abraham Lincoln.

Video Task:
Watch a video on the causes of the US Civil War.
List as many causes of the event as you can hear and share your list with a partner.

Research Activity:
Research the following topics: Slavery, States’ Rights, Economic Differences, Sectionalism, Election of Abraham Lincoln.
Use the videos, information sheet, and the internet for research.

Timeline Activity:
Sort the timeline cards into the correct chronological order, covering key events leading up to the Civil War.

Categorisation Task:
Categorise and sort your evidence into relevant factors (Social, Political, Economic).
Fill in your research table accordingly.

Guided Reading:
Complete a guided reading activity on the causes of the US Civil War.
Subtitle each paragraph, write down three key facts, and look up any unknown words.

Writing Task:
Write a PEEKA paragraph explaining one cause of the US Civil War.
Use the PEEKA planning sheet for guidance.

Class Discussion:
Share and discuss the PEEKA paragraphs.
Reflect on the collective impact of these factors leading to the Civil War.

Recap Quiz:
Participate in a recap quiz to reinforce key points from the lesson.

Resources:
Video link on the causes of the US Civil War
Research topics and table
Timeline cards
Primary source documents
Guided reading text
PEEKA paragraph guidelines and planning sheet

From a series of over 50 lessons made by Wolsey Academy on the history of the United States. They provide a thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of world history and provide an excellent foundation for all future study. Each lesson looks to focus on a range of historical skills and exam techniques to equip students with knowledge and transferable research, analysis and study skills.
To find the complete bundle search on the Wolsey Academy website.

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