As a Maryland resident, you are aware of both sides of the issues which caused the South to secede from the Union. You have volunteered to fight in this war. Your family is very distraught and insists you write home often so they are aware of your location and safety. Decide whether you support the North or the South. You will have four different writing assignments to complete.

• Your first writing assignment is a letter to your parents explaining which army you have joined and why you chose that particular side. Include facts you know or find about the causes of the war.

• Your second writing assignment is a journal/ diary entry which describes the living conditions of a typical soldier. Include details about food, clothing, shelter and transportation. Express your personal feelings about your army camp experience.

• Your third writing assignment is an article for your hometown newspaper. You should choose a battle that your side won. Include information about: leaders, location, strategies, and impact on the war. Click here to review the components of a good newspaper article. Remember . . . make your readers believe they are witnessing the battle.

• Your final writing assignment is a business letter to your Commander-in-Chief, either Jefferson Davis or Abraham Lincoln. The letter should describe a battle which your side lost. Assume the role of the military commander of the battle. Explain the flaw(s) in the military strategy that contributed to the loss. Also, propose a different strategy which may have changed the original outcome of this battle.