Lesson Plan: Aaron Burr Kills Alexander Hamilton in a Duel

Details of the Lesson

This lesson is designed for high school students studying American history. It will cover the events leading up to the duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton, the duel itself, and the aftermath. The lesson will take approximately 90 minutes to complete.

Learning Outcomes

• Know the events leading up to the duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton
• Understand the reasons behind the duel
• Know the outcome of the duel and its impact on American politics
• Understand the role of dueling in American society during the early 19th century

Methodology

The lesson will begin with a brief lecture on the events leading up to the duel. Students will then be divided into small groups to research and discuss the reasons behind the duel. Each group will present their findings to the class. The class will then watch a video reenactment of the duel and discuss its impact on American politics. Finally, students will complete a short writing assignment in which they analyze the role of dueling in American society during the early 19th century.

Resources/Materials Required

• Textbook or online resources on American history
• Video reenactment of the duel
• Writing prompts for the writing assignment

Activities

1. Lecture on the events leading up to the duel (15 minutes)
2. Small group research and discussion on the reasons behind the duel (30 minutes)
3. Group presentations on the reasons behind the duel (15 minutes)
4. Watch video reenactment of the duel and discuss its impact on American politics (20 minutes)
5. Writing assignment analyzing the role of dueling in American society during the early 19th century (20 minutes)

Assessment

Assessment will be based on the quality of the group presentations and the writing assignment. Students will be graded on their ability to analyze the reasons behind the duel and its impact on American politics, as well as their understanding of the role of dueling in American society during the early 19th century.