Abstract: Reconstruction remains a controversial topic in American History. Debate continues over its goals and consequences for America. This project encourages students to explore the controversy by researching and interpreting sources related to Reconstruction.

Subject and Grade Levels: U.S.History, grades 10 - 12

Time, Content, Process: This two-day lesson is designed to accompany a unit exploring the consequences of the Civil War and/or as an introduction to the Gilded Age. Students will research the collections of the Library of Congress to analyze the goals and consequences of Reconstruction.

Learner Outcomes: Students will define Reconstruction in American History.

Students will read and understand government actions taken to establish define civil rights in the years following the Civil War.

Students will identify and analyze actions taken by Americans to bring the newly-freed peope into American society.

Students will identify and analyze actions taken to restrict the civil rights of America's newest citizens.

Students will interpert their research by selecting a primary source document to support or challenge the thesis that Reconstruction was a time of hope and accomplishment.

State Standards:

16.A.5a Analyze historical and contemporary developments using methods of historical inquiry (pose questions, collect and analyze data, make and support inferences with evidence, report findings).

16.B.4 (US) Identify political ideas that have dominated United States historical eras

16.D.4b (US) Describe unintended social consequences of political events in United States history

Technology Standards

Students are proficient in the use of technology.

Students practice responsible use of technology systems, information, and software.

Students use technology tools to enhance learning, increase productivity, and promote creativity.

Students use telecommunications to collaborate, publish, and interact with peers, experts, and other audiences.

Students use technology to locate, evaluate, and collect information from a variety of sources.

Students use technology resources for solving problems and making informed decisions.

Teacher Resposibility:

Read Eric Foner's quote about Reconstruction.

Inform your students that they will take on the role of historians as they research primary source documents to understand the consequences of Reconstruction on the newly-freed Americans.

Collect each student's powerpoint disc that summarizes their analysis of Reconstruction.

Lesson One:

Lesson Two:

Student Worksheet

Materials: Students will need an electronic storage device to save their selected primary source and their interpretation on powerpoint slides.