Lesson 2: Should Andrew Jackson be on the $20 bill?
Duration of Days: 1
Lesson Objective
Students will evaluate Andrew Jackson’s actions and legacy to form and support an evidence-based opinion on whether he should remain on the $20 bill.
What actions and policies of Andrew Jackson support or challenge his place on the $20 bill?
How should we decide which historical figures are honored on U.S. currency?
Executive Branch
Indian Removal
Trail of Tears
Nullification
Veto
Legacy
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 critically examine Andrew Jackson’s actions, policies, and overall legacy to determine whether he should remain on the $20 bill. Using historical evidence, students will analyze key aspects of his presidency, including the Indian Removal, the Trail of Tears, and his use of executive power, and consider how these actions impact his legacy. Through discussion, guided questions, and the use of vocabulary like executive branch, veto, and nullification, students will develop and support their own evidence-based opinions, culminating in an assessment where they justify their position on Jackson’s place on U.S. currency.
To support diverse learners in this lesson, teachers can provide texts and primary sources at different reading levels, including summaries or graphic organizers to help students extract key information, and audio versions for those who benefit from listening. Visual supports such as timelines, charts, and political cartoons can help students understand key events and concepts, while vocabulary like executive branch, veto, and nullification can be reinforced through visuals or interactive activities. Students can demonstrate their understanding in multiple ways, such as writing an essay, creating a visual presentation, or participating in a debate, and sentence starters or scaffolding questions can help students structure their arguments effectively. Peer collaboration, small-group discussions, and one-on-one conferencing offer additional support, while advanced learners can be challenged to research contemporary debates about figures on currency or compare Jackson’s legacy with other historical figures. These strategies allow all students to engage meaningfully with the lesson and express their understanding in ways that match their skills and learning preferences.
Should Andrew Jackson be on the $20 bill? Assessment sheet