Lesson 1: The Life and Legacy of Andrew Jackson
Duration of Days: 2
Lesson Objective
Students will be able to describe key events in Andrew Jackson’s life and explain how his actions as president influenced the nation.
What key events in Andrew Jackson’s life shaped his presidency and leadership style?
How did Andrew Jackson’s actions as president impact the power of the people and the role of the executive branch?
Executive Branch
Jacksonian Democracy
Spoils System
Nullification
Bank War
Tariffs
8.His.14.a. Explain the causes and effects of government policies and executive decisions related to industrialization and expansion of the United States (e.g., Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Removal Act, Louisiana Purchase, Mexican-American War) CT Secondary Social Studies State Standards page 52
In this lesson, students will explore the life of Andrew Jackson and examine how his presidency shaped the United States. They will investigate key events in his personal and political life, and analyze how his actions as president influenced the nation, including the expansion of democratic participation. Through reading, discussion, and guided questions, students will consider how the people gained more power during the Age of Jackson and explore the role of the executive branch in shaping policy and government decisions.
Differentiated by providing texts at varying reading levels, so all students can access the information. Teachers can also offer multiple ways for students to demonstrate understanding, such as answering guided questions, creating a timeline, or discussing key events in small groups. Additionally, supports like graphic organizers, vocabulary lists, and targeted questioning can help students who need extra scaffolding while allowing advanced learners to explore deeper analysis.
Andrew Jackson Reading for Information assessment sheet
Materials/Resources/Text/Speakers