Lincoln's+Whiskers+Reinforcing+Activity

** Procedure: ** After reading aloud Mr. Lincoln’s Whiskers to the class, students will have a “dinner table discussion” in which they organize themselves as if they were all sitting at a giant dinner table, just like Grace’s family in the book. Every member in Grace’s family has their own perspective on Abraham Lincoln as well as the events taking place at that time. Through group discussion led by the teacher, the students will identify each perspective represented in Grace’s family and they are to think of the possible reasoning behind each perspective. The students are to then write a reflection on their experience and they are to include their own opinion about key ideas presented in the book. Topics to be discussed are: abolishment of slavery vs. the union, women’s rights, the appearance of politicians and how it relates to their success, comparing the predicament leading up to the Civil War with any issue today that could theoretically divide the nation. ** Materials: ** Mr. Lincoln’s Whiskers, large table or tables, chairs, students will provide their own paper and pencils. Perhaps have students bring in different food- if not, then just dinner rolls. ** Assessment: ** Written reflection turned in at the end of discussion, informal observation of student participation during the discussion
 * Objective: ** Students will be able to identify multiple issues and perspectives prior to the Civil War through reading Mr. Lincoln’s Whiskers. They will interpret perspectives of each of the characters in the book.