Lesson Plan One Background Information for Teachers

This lesson presents the opportunity for students to explore the determination of a young learner who, despite limited formal opportunities, taught himself so fervently that he grew up ready to lead our country through its most difficult time. During the Civil War the survival of the United States as one nation was at risk with the ideals of liberty, equality, justice, and human dignity dependent on the outcome of the war. Primary and secondary sources will be analyzed by students as they investigate Lincoln’s education and how he led the nation through his powerful, enduring words. The objective is for students to make personal connections to a truly great learner and leader as they face obstacles in their own lives and become motivated to persevere as Abraham Lincoln did throughout the challenges in his life.