Activity Overview
The Compromise of 1850 was just one of the major events preceding the eve of the Civil War. Using a spider map, have students detail the different components of the Compromise. They should include who proposed it, how it was received socially and politically, and incorporate the separate laws that made up the Compromise. Students should also include the debate over passing the Compromise and how it aimed to solve the question of slavery and its place in (or out of) the new territories.
The students will use the 5 Ws for this activity:
- Who?
- What?
- When?
- Where?
- Why?
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a spider map detailing the 5 Ws of the Compromise of 1850: Who, What, When, Where, Why?
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title of each cell, ask each of the 5 Ws as they relate to the Compromise.
- In the description boxes, answer the question.
- Create images in each cell that illustrate each answer using appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
The Compromise of 1850 was just one of the major events preceding the eve of the Civil War. Using a spider map, have students detail the different components of the Compromise. They should include who proposed it, how it was received socially and politically, and incorporate the separate laws that made up the Compromise. Students should also include the debate over passing the Compromise and how it aimed to solve the question of slavery and its place in (or out of) the new territories.
The students will use the 5 Ws for this activity:
- Who?
- What?
- When?
- Where?
- Why?
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a spider map detailing the 5 Ws of the Compromise of 1850: Who, What, When, Where, Why?
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title of each cell, ask each of the 5 Ws as they relate to the Compromise.
- In the description boxes, answer the question.
- Create images in each cell that illustrate each answer using appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about 5Ws: Analyzing the Compromise of 1850
Plan a Classroom Debate on the Compromise of 1850
Encourage students to research and represent different viewpoints by assigning roles such as Northern abolitionists, Southern politicians, and Western settlers. This activity helps students understand the complexity of the Compromise and practice respectful argumentation.
Assign research roles to students
Have each student or group represent a key stakeholder from the era, such as Henry Clay, a Southern senator, or an enslaved person. Assigning roles fosters empathy and deepens content understanding.
Provide resources and time for preparation
Share primary sources, textbook excerpts, and articles for students to gather arguments and evidence. Preparation ensures students feel confident and informed during the debate.
Set clear rules and structure for the debate
Outline speaking times, respectful conduct, and rebuttal opportunities before starting. Clear guidelines create a safe, productive environment for all voices.
Facilitate reflection after the debate
Lead a class discussion or have students write about what they learned and how the Compromise of 1850's complexities still relate to issues today. Reflection helps students process perspectives and connect history to the present.
Frequently Asked Questions about 5Ws: Analyzing the Compromise of 1850
What are the 5 Ws of the Compromise of 1850?
The 5 Ws of the Compromise of 1850 are: Who proposed it (notably Henry Clay), What it entailed (a series of laws regarding slavery and territories), When it occurred (1850), Where it impacted (mainly new U.S. territories), and Why it was needed (to address tensions over slavery expansion).
How can students create a spider map for the Compromise of 1850?
Students can make a spider map by placing "Compromise of 1850" at the center, then branching out to answer each of the 5 Ws with text and images that illustrate key people, events, laws, and reasons related to the Compromise.
Why was the Compromise of 1850 important in U.S. history?
The Compromise of 1850 was crucial because it temporarily eased tensions between free and slave states, delaying the Civil War and addressing the issue of slavery in new territories acquired after the Mexican-American War.
What laws made up the Compromise of 1850?
The Compromise included the Fugitive Slave Act, admission of California as a free state, abolition of the slave trade in Washington D.C., and new territorial governments for Utah and New Mexico with no restrictions on slavery.
Who proposed the Compromise of 1850 and what was the debate about?
Henry Clay proposed the Compromise of 1850. The debate centered on whether slavery should expand into new territories, with strong opposition and support from different regions and political groups in Congress.
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- Image taken from page 76 of 'Elements of Geography. [With illustrations.]' • The British Library • License No known copyright restrictions (http://flickr.com/commons/usage/)
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