Historical poetry is lyrical in form and rich with content. After examining the differences between the Northern and Southern states before and during the U.S. Civil War, learners complete a Venn diagram and create an illustration of the differences between the opposing sides. They then write a poem based on their research and class discussion.

Concepts

the united states civil war, poetry, the confederacy, historical analysis

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Additional Tags

civil war, northern and southern states of u.s, u.s. civil war, programs

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Instructional Ideas

• Encourage class members to present their poems at a school poetry slam
• Poetry assignment may require more guidance than provided on the handout

Classroom Considerations

• Designed for elementary readers but well-suited for middle schoolers as well

Pros

• Uses a song from Rogers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma as an example of the poetic form
• Provides differentiation options for struggling readers or English learners

Cons

• None

Common Core

W.5.10 W.6.10 W.7.10 WHST.6-8.2.a