Lesson Plan Title : Evolution of Fighting Tactics in American History

Age Range: Grade 9 through Grade 12 (High School)

Overview and Purpose: This lesson will help students visualize the different wars America has been involved in and the fighting styles of each one. They will be able to see the changes the United States has made in helping the soldiers who are fighting our wars.

Objective: The student will be able to

*list major American wars and the fighting tactics used in each one.

*recreate a typical battle from one of America's major wars.

Resources:

Internet access

Textbook

Teacher-created worksheet

Activities:

Using the worksheet, have students work in pairs to research various American wars. At the end of the project have them choose one of the wars and recreate a typical battle from it. Encourage the students to be creative in their re-creations. They can make a computer simulation, scale model, or other representation. Have them present their project to the class.

Sample Worksheet:

Wrap Up:

The worksheet will present a timeline making it easier for students to compare the different methods of fighting. More advanced students may want to diagram battlefield positions or show how weapons have changed.