The Star Fort

OBJECTIVES:

The students will:

1. describe the shape of Fort McHenry and determine at least two reasons why this shape was used.

2. interpret a map of Fort McHenry to determine what designs were incorporated into providing defense of the fort.

MATERIALS: "The Star Fort" handout and the "Diagram of Fort McHenry"

ACTIVITIES:

1. Divide the students into cooperative groups and distribute the "The Star Fort" handout. Have the students make a list of the buildings mentioned in the reading. Ask them to write a short description of how each building was used. Have the students draw a five-pointed, star shape. Ask them to use the descriptions to place symbols showing where they think each building was located.

2. Distribute the "Diagram of Fort McHenry" to the groups and ask the students to compare the diagram of the fort to their drawings. Make a list of any differences between the two drawings. How did the groups do? Have them explain why they did or did not do well in locating the buildings.

Lesson #4: The Star Fort

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