Reform Movements in the United States 1820 – 1860

Standard:  History

Benchmark:
8.1.18 Analyze different interests and points of views of individuals and groups involved in the abolitionist, feminist, and social reform movements, and in sectional conflicts.
8.1.19  Explain the influence of early individual social reformers and movements.

Essential Question:
How did the reform movements of the mid 1800s change American society?  How did choices of past reformers contribute to the greater good?

Background:
There were several reform movements that took place between 1820 and 1860. Some of these reforms included the

1. abolitionist movement, 2. labor unions, 3.  temperance movement, 4.  women’s movement, 5.  prison reform, 6.  mentally ill, 7.  religious reform and 9.  education reform. Because women, students, African Americans, children and the mentally ill faced discrimination it was necessary to make changes and push for reform. Today you live in a democracy in which you can express your beliefs and make a difference! The groups listed above did not have that opportunity, yet fought for the rights enjoyed by many today. Looking back to the past you realize just how much Americans have achieved.

In this project, you will be asked to research and analyze one reform movement and reformers involved in it between 1820 and 1860.  You will display your findings using a media format of your choice.  In the end, students will preview your product and answer questions to check for understanding.

Include the following in your finished product:  12 points  (Deadline – Friday, 4/20

1. Title (Name of Reform Movement)
2. A section for your heading (name, date, subject, block)
3. 6 sections with information with subtitles
   1. Section 1 – Content: identify the problem and cite specific textual evidence (credible sources) to show the problem was a detriment to society. Include image.  Use reform related content vocabulary.  (2pts.)  negative impact it had on society as a whole.
   2. Section 2 – Reading: What was the solution to the problem and cite specific textual evidence (credible sources) to show the impact the reform had on America..  (2pts.) positive impact it had on society as a whole.
   3. Section 3 – Connections: discuss the social problem and using your credible sources, take a stance on whether or not you feel its solutions contributed to the betterment of American society today. Include image (2pts.)
   4. Section 4: name a key person (key reformer) that was actively involved in the reform movement (2pts.)
   5. Section 5: answer to the Essential Question by providing examples (or evidence) from the reading material (or text) (2pts.)
   6. Section 6: Credible Sources from which you got your information from (2pts.)

• Characteristics of a reform, characteristics of a society that would call for a reform, context of America in 1840s.
• Using credible sources (primary and secondary sources), research essential components of the reform being studied.
• Describe how the social reform contributed to the betterment of American society.
• Describe what impact the reform had on America.