Talking Maps

Gr 5 Up—Maps combined with still photos and video reenactments of campaigns and battles graphically present the events of the American Civil War (1861—1865). The first segment covers Fort Sumter to Antietam and the second part features Gettysburg to Appomattox Courthouse. A narrator explains the events of the war while maps, photos, and video provide a visual depiction. By seeing the maps of the seceding states, students will gain a clear idea of how the Civil War came to be and how the Union troops were able to defeat the rebels. Political and military strategies are concisely explained. The drama of the war is clearly portrayed in the reenactments, and the movement of troops is shown on the maps. Captions and audio descriptions are available from the set-up menu of the DVD. Succinct teacher's guides for each part include a synopsis, learning objectives, vocabulary, pre- and post-viewing discussion questions, and other activities. While the program is basic enough for fifth graders, it will also hold the attention of high school students. A good addition to the U.S. history curriculum.—Ann Weber, Bellarmine College Prep., San Jose, CA