A Day That Changed America: Gettysburg
A day without a smile is a day wasted Series
What’s inside...
Provides a short history of the Battle of Gettysburg and the commemorative address President Lincoln made there during the Civil War. It was the bloodiest battle ever fought on North American soil. In three days, more than 50,000 Confederate and Union soldiers were killed in the hills and fields surrounding Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Several months later, on November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln traveled to Gettysburg to help dedicate the cemetery where row upon row of graves marked the men lost in battle. His moving speech, which took only two minutes to recite, would inspire the nation and stay in the hearts and minds of Americans forever.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the soldiers to fight in the battle of Gettysburg?
How do you think the outcome of the battle impacted the course of American history?
What emotions do you think the people involved in the battle might have felt?
Can you imagine how the landscape of Gettysburg changed as a result of the battle?
Why is it important to remember and learn about significant events like the Battle of Gettysburg?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by setting a calm and open environment where your child feels comfortable expressing their thoughts. Show genuine interest in their responses to encourage deeper thinking. Relate the historical events to current events to help your child see the relevance of history in today's world. Use visual aids, such as maps or pictures, to help them visualize Gettysburg and the battle. Encourage them to think about the broader implications of the battle, like how it influenced the nation's future.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of understanding history
Explanation: The book dives into the historical significance of the Battle of Gettysburg, providing insights into the events that shaped America.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the events that shaped their country and understand the importance of learning from history to forge a better future.
Example Lesson: The value of courage and leadership
Explanation: Key figures in the battle, such as generals and soldiers, are portrayed demonstrating bravery and strategic thinking during critical moments.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to adopt these qualities in their daily challenges, whether in school projects or in standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: The impact of teamwork
Explanation: The book illustrates how both the Union and Confederate armies relied on teamwork and cooperation among their troops to navigate the battle.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to work cooperatively in group settings and value each member's contribution to achieving a common goal.
Example Lesson: The consequences of conflict
Explanation: Through detailed narratives about the battle and its aftermath, readers gain an understanding of the grave consequences of conflict.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to resolve disputes peacefully and understand the importance of negotiation and dialogue.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The book portrays how soldiers and civilians alike showed resilience during and after the battle.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance and resilience when confronted with difficult situations, encouraging them to keep going despite obstacles.