Presidential vs. Radical Reconstruction (Grades 6–8): Debate Through Readers Theater

Turn Reconstruction into a live debate. This script stages clashes between President Andrew Johnson and Radical Republicans, helping students compare policies and cite dialogue as evidence.

What’s Included

• Printable readers theater script
• Student worksheet

Classroom Uses

• Johnson vs. Congress debate using scripted lines
• Cause-and-effect charts on vetoes and overrides
• Quick-writes on amnesty, Black Codes, and equal protection

Extra Historical Overview

For teacher context (not part of product): Johnson’s broad pardons and rapid readmission plans collided with congressional priorities, leading to repeated veto overrides and a decisive shift toward federal protection of civil rights.

Get the script: Presidential vs. Radical Reconstruction — Readers Theater (Grades 6–8)