Last updated: April 29, 2020
Lesson Plan
Fortifications at Fort Donelson NB
- Grade Level:
- Middle School: Sixth Grade through Eighth Grade
- Subject:
- Math,Social Studies
- Lesson Duration:
- 30 Minutes
- Thinking Skills:
- Understanding: Understand the main idea of material heard, viewed, or read. Interpret or summarize the ideas in own words.
Essential Question
Why were earthen fortifications used during the Civil War?
Objective
Students should be able to:
1. Help students understand Civil War forts, polygonal shapes, understand terminology, and locations on a map
2. Help students understand the importance of the rivers for Union & Confederate armies
3. Encourage thoughts about historic preservation & resource protection
Background
Teachers should become familiar with the park's story using historical background information on the park's website.
Preparation
Teachers should present historical information and overview of the 1862 Campaign for Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson. This could be accomplished by using the park's website or other materials available from the Ranger staff.
Materials
Short summary and exercises to study the Civil War fort.
Download Civil War Fortifications on the Cumberland & Tennessee Rivers
Procedure
1. Students review or read information about the 1862 battles for Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson.
2. Review the worksheet.
3. Use the park map to answer the questions (available online)
4. Review the historical sketches of Civil War forts, using the Library of Congress website.