Activity Overview
During any war, it's important for students to have a clear understanding of the major figures involved and what their role is. Using a traditional storyboard and the character map backgrounds, students can create a chart describing the major figures of the War of 1812, their position, actions, and legacy after the war. Students will be able to understand each side of the war, including the U.S., Great Britain, and the Native Americans and how their actions contributed to the outcome of the war itself.
Teachers can pre-determine specific figures, or allow students to choose who they believe to be important. However, students should include at least one figure from each side of the war to have a better understanding of the different perspectives involved.
Recommended Notable Figures in the War of 1812
- James Madison
- William Henry Harrison
- John C. Calhoun
- Tecumseh
- Isaac Brock
- Andrew Jackson
Extended Activity
Have students create a spider map or poster on one specific figure. Use this as an extended, mastery activity so students can go further in depth as to who the figure was, their role, and why they are significant in relation to the War of 1812 and American history.
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 character map for the major historical figures.
- Identify the major historical figures in The War of 1812 and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the historical figures.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to person.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense.
- Fill in the text boxes for Who, Significance, Interesting Fact #1, and Interesting Fact #2.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
During any war, it's important for students to have a clear understanding of the major figures involved and what their role is. Using a traditional storyboard and the character map backgrounds, students can create a chart describing the major figures of the War of 1812, their position, actions, and legacy after the war. Students will be able to understand each side of the war, including the U.S., Great Britain, and the Native Americans and how their actions contributed to the outcome of the war itself.
Teachers can pre-determine specific figures, or allow students to choose who they believe to be important. However, students should include at least one figure from each side of the war to have a better understanding of the different perspectives involved.
Recommended Notable Figures in the War of 1812
- James Madison
- William Henry Harrison
- John C. Calhoun
- Tecumseh
- Isaac Brock
- Andrew Jackson
Extended Activity
Have students create a spider map or poster on one specific figure. Use this as an extended, mastery activity so students can go further in depth as to who the figure was, their role, and why they are significant in relation to the War of 1812 and American history.
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 character map for the major historical figures.
- Identify the major historical figures in The War of 1812 and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the historical figures.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to person.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense.
- Fill in the text boxes for Who, Significance, Interesting Fact #1, and Interesting Fact #2.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Major Figures of the War of 1812
Engage students with a dynamic War of 1812 debate activity
Encourage students to take on the roles of different major figures and debate key decisions or actions from the War of 1812. This strategy fosters deeper understanding of multiple perspectives and critical thinking skills while making history come alive in your classroom.
Choose diverse figures for each debate team
Select at least one U.S., one British, and one Native American leader for debate teams. This ensures students research and represent a variety of viewpoints and helps everyone see the conflict from different angles.
Assign research and preparation roles
Divide students into small groups, assigning each group or individual a historical figure. Have them use class resources and reliable websites to gather facts, opinions, and background about their person’s motivations and actions.
Guide students to develop debate arguments
Help students craft strong, historically accurate arguments that reflect their figure’s perspective. Encourage them to use primary sources, quotes, and facts to support their points and challenge opposing views respectfully.
Facilitate and reflect on the debate
Moderate the debate by posing guiding questions and keeping the discussion focused. Afterward, lead a reflection on what students learned about the motivations, challenges, and legacies of each major figure in the War of 1812.
Frequently Asked Questions about Major Figures of the War of 1812
Who were the major figures in the War of 1812?
Major figures in the War of 1812 included James Madison (U.S. President), Andrew Jackson (military leader), William Henry Harrison, John C. Calhoun, Tecumseh (Native American leader), and Isaac Brock (British commander). Each played a key role shaping the war’s outcome.
How can students create a character map for War of 1812 figures?
Students can create a character map by identifying key figures, choosing visuals to represent them, and filling in details like Who they were, their Significance, and two interesting facts. This helps visualize each person's role and perspective in the war.
What is the best way to teach about different perspectives in the War of 1812?
The best way is to include at least one figure from each side—U.S., Great Britain, and Native Americans—in lessons. Character maps and group discussions encourage students to see the war from multiple viewpoints.
Why is it important to study notable individuals from both sides of the War of 1812?
Studying notable individuals from both sides provides a deeper understanding of the war’s causes, events, and impact. It highlights diverse perspectives and helps students grasp the complexity of historical conflicts.
What extended activities can help students learn more about War of 1812 leaders?
Extended activities like creating a spider map or poster on a specific figure let students research their life, role, and significance. This promotes mastery and connects individual stories to American history.
More Storyboard That Activities
War of 1812
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