The Importance of the Star Spangled Banner In Maryland History
Topic: The National Anthem “Star Spangled Banner” and Francis Scott Key
Grade Level: Elementary
Duration: One 45 minute class period
Essential Question: What was/is the importance of the “Star Spangled Banner” and Francis Scott Key in Maryland/American History?
VSC: 5.C.2.a. http://mdk12.org/instruction/clarification/social_studies/grade4/5C2a.html Standard: 5.0- History Indicator: C.1.a.- Maryland’s role in the War of 1812
Lesson Objective: Students will analyze and describe the creation/importance of the “Star Spangled Banner” in Maryland/American History.
Essential Vocabulary: Francis Scott Key Fort McHenry War of 1812 spangled national anthem patriotism/nationalism
Materials: * Discovery Education clip “Francis Scott Key”, “War of 1812” and “The Star Spangled Banner”, * Audio of the “Star Spangled Banner” and “Teacher and the Rockbots-Star Spangled Banner” * 1814 image of the bombardment of Fort McHenry: http://www.150.si.edu/images/3batl.jpg. * One copy of the “Star Spangled Banner” for each student.
Procedure: Background: The most famous and most significant result of Maryland's involvement in the War of 1812 is the writing of the "Star-Spangled Banner" by Francis Scott Key, which would in 1931 become our nation's national anthem.
Instruction: 1. The language of Francis Scott Key's poem is difficult for students understand, and few truly comprehend the meaning behind the words they sing. To help students understand the background and significance behind the "Star-Spangled Banner," first have them read the first stanza of the poem and try to explain what it describes.
2. Explain to students that the "Star-Spangled Banner" describes a British attack on the Baltimore during the War of 1812. Provide students with background information on the causes of the War of 1812 and the British targeting of Baltimore. Then relate the story of Francis Scott Key's involvement in the Battle of Baltimore. (use MSDE War of 1812 summary and video segments)
3. Show students the 1814 image of the bombardment of Fort McHenry: http://www.150.si.edu/images/3batl.jpg.
4. Discuss the significance of the Battle at Fort McHenry and the flag in American patriotism.
5. Reread/listen to the “Star Spangled Banner” and have students share any new insights/discoveries about our national anthem and its role in Maryland/American patriotism.
Closure/Assessment: In closure, have students pretend that they are Francis Scott Key and write a letter to a friend describing his experiences witnessing the Battle of Baltimore on September 13 —14, 1814. The letter should explain why the British wanted to attack Baltimore, briefly explain Key's mission to rescue Dr. Beanes, describe the bombardment, and describe Key's feelings about witnessing the attack and its outcome.
Extension: Integrate Technology and English/Language Arts by having students revise/edit their letter using the Writing Process then publishing it using Microsoft Word. Encourage students to use the proper format for a friendly letter.