We haven't done it yet, but we're approaching that. He added that the growth of the federal government also stems from the Civil War and Reconstruction periods, as does the foundation of today's economic system. Blending stories into a study of history turns the past into a dynamic place. No matter how good, though, historical fiction can't stand alone, Lindquist emphasizes. It should complement the unique skills and processes kids need to for social studies.
Historical fiction is the spice.
A list of suggestions for kids, including many books set in the Civil War era. A lengthy list of ideas, many with links to lesson plans, from Literature for the Social Studies Classroom , a web site by and for teachers. Who Was There A lesson plan from Online Educator that centers on the intimate letters and photographs of soldier Newton Robert Scott, which are available online. More than 1,000 photographs of the American Civil War, including scenes of military personnel, preparations for battle, and battle after-effects, as well as portraits of both Confederate and Union officers, and a selection of enlisted men. From the Library of Congress's American Memory web series.