Students enriched their understanding of the Civil War with many in-depth projects, like the Battle of Gettsyburg simulation game.
Mr. Hausfeld and Ms. Cassin combined the 7th grade classes for a variety of activities this past school year. The students enjoyed the opportunity to work across cores, and the teachers enjoyed getting to know all the students.
The Civil War unit provided many opportunities for cross-team collaboration:
- We planted seeds to recreate the agricultural practices of the time and had a medical unit that simulated field surgery.
- The Battle of Gettysburg simulation game pitted the 7-1 team (South) against the 7-2 team (North) in a recreation of the battle that was the turning point for the North during the Civil War, ultimately leading to the demise of slavery in America. Students were in charge of buying supplies and supporting a working economy.
- Our culminating project was a Living History Museum. Students recreated scenes from the Civil War. This activity gave students a deeper understanding of and appreciation for this deeply divisive time in our country’s history.
- In addition to gaining a deeper knowledge of the past, the 7th graders were able to bridge to current issues with two assignments dealing with slavery. Ms. Cassin’s class explored slavery in the 21st Century, and the implications it has for us now. Mr. Hausfeld’s class expressed, through symbolism, the triumphs and hardships that women and enslaved Africans faced during the 19th century.