Description of lesson/activity
1. identify major reform movements between 1800 and 1848.
2. describe the goals, outcomes, and important leaders of one particular reform movement.
3. describe American culture in the period 1800 to 1848.
4. gather relevant information from the textbook and other available resources.
5. demonstrate his/her knowledge through illustrations, symbols, and/or words.
1. The students have examined the effect of Manifest Destiny on the political shape of the United States. This activity will show the impact of reform movements on the moral character of American society.
2. The teacher should provide background on the development of a distinct American culture and pride that develops during this period. Primary resources, such as Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass , would be helpful in depicting this new spirit in America. The literature of this period suggests the opportunity for developing interdisciplinary lessons.
3. There were many reform movements between 1800 and 1848. Students should study one movement in depth rather than surveying all movements. A list of possible topics is found on the "Reform Movement: Student Guide."
4. The teacher can assign topics in any way he or she wishes. Students may work in pairs or groups to complete their research.
5. Distribute "Reform Movement: Student Guide." Emphasize the importanceof finding both goals and outcomes.
6. Students may need to use a variety of resources in order to gather enough information. Time in the school library may be helpful. The teacher may work with the media specialist to develop a library research project.
7. Evaluation of the research is up to the teacher.
8. Once the research is completed, students will demonstrate their knowledge by creating a project for the class collage. Use the direction sheet, "Reform Movement: Student Collage" to explain the assignment. As an alternative, students could create broad sides, slogans or songs.
9. As a concluding activity, the teacher may ask each group to explain the significance of their piece of the collage.
10. Evaluation may be based on both the content of the collage entry and the explanation.
Resource 1: Reform Movement: Student Guide
Resource 2: Reform Movement: Student Collage