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The Burning of Washington D.C.

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Tamara Gonzales

Tier 1
For Schools

Lesson Plan

The Burning of Washington D.C.

Students learn about the British attack on D.C.

In this lesson, 2nd-grade students will explore the historical event of the British attack and burning of Washington D.C. during the War of 1812. Through collaborative and active learning strategies, students will engage with the material through a variety of activities including reading, discussion, and a quiz. This lesson is important as it introduces young learners to a significant event in American history, fostering an understanding of historical events and their impact on the present.

Audience

2nd Grade

Time

60 minutes

Approach

Collaborative Learning, Active Learning, Inquiry-Based Learning, Experiential Learning

Materials

Worksheet: The Burning of Washington D.C., Reading: The British Attack on Washington D.C., Discussion: Impact of the Attack, Exit Ticket: Key Takeaways, Quiz: Washington D.C. Burning, and Answer Key: Washington D.C. Burning Quiz

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

  • Begin with a brief introduction to the War of 1812.
  • Explain the significance of Washington D.C. as the capital of the United States.
  • Introduce the event of the British attack and burning of Washington D.C.

Step 2

Reading Activity

10 mins

  • Distribute the reading material titled "The British Attack on Washington D.C."
  • Have students read the passage individually or in pairs.
  • Encourage students to highlight or note any surprising facts.

Step 3

Discussion

10 mins

  • Facilitate a discussion using the prepared questions.
  • Encourage students to share their thoughts on why the British might have targeted Washington D.C.
  • Discuss the impact of the attack on the American people and government.

Step 4

Worksheet Activity

10 mins

  • Hand out the worksheet titled "The Burning of Washington D.C."
  • Have students complete the worksheet individually.
  • Walk around to assist and answer any questions.

Step 5

Quiz

10 mins

  • Administer the quiz on the burning of Washington D.C.
  • Allow students to work individually.
  • Collect the quizzes for assessment.

Step 6

Closure and Exit Ticket

10 mins

  • Summarize the key points of the lesson.
  • Distribute the exit ticket for students to write down one thing they learned and one question they still have.
  • Collect exit tickets as students leave.
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Discussion

Impact of the Attack

This discussion will help students explore the reasons behind the British attack on Washington D.C. and its impact on the American people and government.

Why do you think the British attacked Washington D.C.?

Consider the strategic importance of the capital and the message it would send.







What do you think the American people felt during and after the attack?

Think about the emotions of fear, anger, and resilience.







How might this event have changed the way Americans viewed their government?

Discuss the potential loss of confidence and the need for stronger defense.







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Worksheet

The Burning of Washington D.C.

This worksheet will help students reinforce their understanding of the British attack on Washington D.C. through targeted questions.

What year did the British attack Washington D.C.?

Think about the timeline of the War of 1812.







Name one building that was burned during the attack.

Consider important government buildings.







Why was the attack on Washington D.C. significant?

Think about the symbolic importance of the capital.







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Quiz

Washington D.C. Burning

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Answer Key

Washington D.C. Burning Quiz

This answer key provides the correct answers and explanations for the quiz on the British attack on Washington D.C.

What was the main reason the British attacked Washington D.C.?

To destroy the capital
The British aimed to destroy the capital to weaken American morale and government.

Which building was NOT burned during the attack?

The Library of Congress
The Library of Congress was burned, but the Patent Office was spared.

What year did the attack occur?

1814
The attack on Washington D.C. took place during the War of 1812, specifically in 1814.

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Reading

The British Attack on Washington D.C.

This reading provides a brief overview of the British attack on Washington D.C., highlighting key events and their significance.

In August 1814, during the War of 1812, British forces attacked Washington D.C. They burned several important buildings, including the White House and the Capitol. This attack was significant because it was the first time a foreign power had captured and occupied the U.S. capital. The event shocked the nation and highlighted the need for a stronger national defense.

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Quiz

Key Takeaways

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