Lesson Plan: Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer and the Battle of the Little Bighorn

Lesson Details

Subject: History

Grade Level: High School

Duration: 90 minutes

Learning Outcomes

• Know the events leading up to the Battle of the Little Bighorn
• Understand the strategies and tactics used by both sides during the battle
• Analyze the impact of the battle on American history and Native American relations
• Can do: Write a short essay analyzing the causes and consequences of the Battle of the Little Bighorn

Methodology

The lesson will begin with a brief lecture on the events leading up to the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Students will then work in small groups to analyze primary source documents related to the battle, including letters and diary entries from soldiers on both sides. After this, the class will come together for a discussion on the strategies and tactics used by both sides during the battle. Finally, students will write a short essay analyzing the causes and consequences of the battle.

Resources/Materials

• Primary source documents related to the Battle of the Little Bighorn
• Whiteboard and markers
• Laptop or tablet for each student

Activities

1. Lecture on the events leading up to the Battle of the Little Bighorn
2. Small group analysis of primary source documents
3. Class discussion on the strategies and tactics used during the battle
4. Individual essay writing

Assessment

Students will be assessed on their participation in the small group analysis and class discussion, as well as the quality of their individual essays.