Back in 1814, Francis Scott Key set down a poem that began "O say can you see...." Later this work became the Star Spangled Banner, and it is arguably the best-known part of the War of 1812. This installment of the Teaching With Historic Places Lesson Plans takes a close look at the circumstances at Fort McHenry surrounding the composition of this well-known number. Visitors will find that there is an "About This Lesson" area which provides a nice bit of background on these materials. After reading along here, visitors can review the inquiry question for this exercise and then use primary accounts of the bombardment of Fort McHenry and other items, including maps and drawings. Educators will appreciate the "Putting it Together" area, which includes activities like "Debating the War of 1812" and "Whose 'Star Spangled Banner'?"
Comments