Civil War Research Paper

 

Imagine that the editor of a forthcoming book on the Civil War has honored you by asking you to write a chapter on your chosen topic.  You should present your information in such a way that someone who knew little about the Civil War would gain a full understanding of the topic.  For example, if you are researching a particular battle, you will need to give the background leading up to that battle, profiles of the leading generals, discussion of their battle strategies, analysis of each side’s successes or mistakes, and discussion the importance of that battle to the course of the war.  You will probably want to include detailed battle maps and pictures.  Your chapter should be in the 5 to 12 page range. This will count as a double test grade.

 

1. You will need to create your own rubric for your paper and submit it to me for approval.  Decide how much weight you want to give each aspect of your paper.  Talk to me if you have any questions. Your topic idea and rubric are due on Wednesday, Feb. 21.

 

Sample Rubric – The Battle of Chancellorsville

 

Profiles of General Lee, General Hooker and other military leaders

15

Background on events leading up to the Battle of Chancellorsville

15

Analysis of General Hooker’s strategy

10

Analysis of General Lee’s strategy

10

Description of the battle and its aftermath

20

Detailed, hand drawn maps showing the progress of action on the battlefield

10

Wonderful style and mechanics: accurate, appropriate language and well-designed sentences; no spelling, punctuation, and grammar/usage errors; proper citation of material you use

20

Total

100

 

2. You will have to submit a detailed outline of your project for a grade.  I will read it and make suggestions.  If your outline is not adequate, you will need to resubmit it until it is. Your outline is due on Monday, Mar. 5.

 

3. You will need to submit an annotated bibliography when you hand in your final project.  Your bibliography should tell me if your sources were worthwhile and what type of information you got from each. Your proposed bibliography is due on Monday, Mar. 5.

 

4. Your research paper is due on Monday, Mar. 19.

 

Due Date

Assignment

Weds., Feb. 21

Civil War research topic idea and rubric due in Social Studies

Mon., Mar. 5

Detailed outline of research paper and proposed bibliography due in Social Studies

Mon., Mar. 19

Research paper due in Social Studies. (2 pts. per day extra credit for being early)