Dolley Madison's Heroic Rescue

Tamara Gonzales

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Dolley Madison's Heroic Rescue

Learn about Dolley Madison's bravery

In this lesson, students will explore the story of Dolley Madison and her courageous actions during the War of 1812, when she saved important documents and paintings from the White House. This lesson is important as it highlights the significance of historical preservation and the bravery of individuals in times of crisis. Through inquiry-based and collaborative learning, students will engage with the material actively, fostering a deeper understanding of historical events and their impact.

Audience

2nd Grade

Time

60 Minutes

Approach

Inquiry-Based Learning, Active Learning, Collaborative Learning

Materials

Reading: Dolley Madison's Heroic Act, Worksheet: Dolley Madison's Rescue, Discussion: Dolley Madison's Impact, Exit Ticket: Key Takeaways, Quiz: Dolley Madison's Story, and Answer Key: Dolley Madison Quiz

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

Begin with a brief introduction to the War of 1812 and Dolley Madison.
Ask students if they have heard of Dolley Madison and what they know about her.
Explain the importance of preserving history and introduce the day's objective.

Step 2

Reading Activity

15 mins

Distribute the reading material "Dolley Madison's Heroic Act."
Have students read the passage individually or in pairs.
Encourage students to highlight or note any surprising or interesting facts.

Step 3

Discussion

10 mins

Facilitate a discussion using the prepared questions.
Encourage students to share their thoughts on why Dolley Madison's actions were important.
Discuss the impact of her actions on American history.

Step 4

Worksheet Activity

10 mins

Hand out the worksheet "Dolley Madison's Rescue."
Allow students to work individually or in small groups to complete the questions.
Circulate the room to provide assistance and encourage collaboration.

Step 5

Quiz and Exit Ticket

10 mins

Administer the quiz on Dolley Madison's story.
After the quiz, distribute the exit ticket for students to write down one key takeaway from the lesson.
Collect the exit tickets as students leave the classroom.

Step 6

Closure

5 mins

Review the key points of the lesson.
Praise students for their participation and insights.
Encourage students to think about other historical figures who have made significant contributions.

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Discussion

Dolley Madison's Impact

A discussion to explore Dolley Madison's actions and their significance.

Why do you think Dolley Madison decided to save the documents and paintings?

Discuss the importance of preserving history and the bravery involved in her actions.

How might history have been different if Dolley Madison hadn't acted?

Consider the loss of historical artifacts and the impact on national heritage.

Worksheet

Dolley Madison's Rescue

A worksheet to reinforce understanding of Dolley Madison's actions.

What important items did Dolley Madison save from the White House?

Why was it important to save these items?

How do you think Dolley felt during the rescue?

Quiz

Dolley Madison's Story

Answer Key

Dolley Madison Quiz Answer Key

The answer key for the Dolley Madison quiz.

What war was happening when Dolley Madison saved the documents?

War of 1812
Dolley Madison's actions took place during the War of 1812, a significant conflict in American history.

What did Dolley Madison save from the White House?

Documents and paintings
Dolley Madison is famous for saving important documents and paintings, preserving American heritage.

Reading

Dolley Madison's Heroic Act

A reading passage about Dolley Madison's brave actions during the War of 1812.

Dolley Madison, the wife of President James Madison, is remembered for her bravery during the War of 1812. As British troops advanced on Washington D.C., Dolley took action to save important documents and a famous portrait of George Washington from the White House. Her quick thinking and courage helped preserve pieces of American history that might have otherwise been lost.