Introduction to the Teacher Packet

The comprehensive Outline of the Teacher Packet content is an excellent starting point to review the scope of the material available in this packet. Teachers are invited to copy content of the packet at their discretion. Correlations to the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOLs) have been included in the packet.

The packet is designed to enhance teacher-developed lessons dealing with the final days of the Civil War. The emphasis is the surrender of General Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia to General Grant at Appomattox Court House, Virginia. Because of the extraordinary attitudes of those involved in the surrender, from the commanding generals to Billy Yank and Johnny Reb, our nation was reunited in a lasting “gentlemen’s peace.” This reunification is the importance of Appomattox Court House. (Links have been provided within the content to encourage further research. Since these websites are outside the park's control you could encounter broken links.)

The activities relate to history, math and writing primarily for grades 4, 6, and 11, but may be adjusted for any grade level studying Virginia history or the American Civil War. Most can be completed in the classroom, though the Scavenger Hunt is to be completed in the park. For the Scavenger Hunt activity, classes should be divided into groups of 3 or 4 students with each group having a copy of the clues and an adult chaperone. Field trips can be scheduled through the park’s education coordinator at 434-352-8987, ext. 231.

If a teacher prefers a traditional visit, group talks may also be scheduled in advance with the park’s education coordinator.

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