No Prep Sub Plans: U.S. Military History — Women in the Military

No Prep Sub Plans: U.S. Military History — Women in the MilitaryResearch + Group Project (Historical Contributions Guide)

Help students explore the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout U.S. military history with this engaging Women in the Military research and group project lesson. Students investigate how women served in every major American conflict — from the Revolutionary War to modern combat roles — often overcoming major barriers while shaping military history.

Perfect for U.S. History, Military History, Civics, Women’s History Month, Emergency Sub Plans, and cross-curricular research projects, this lesson encourages students to examine leadership, perseverance, service, and historical recognition.

Students investigate:
- Deborah Sampson and women disguised as soldiers
- Harriet Tubman as a Union scout and spy
- Dr. Mary Edwards Walker and military medicine
- WAACs, WAVES, SPARS, Women Marines, and WASPs
- The Six Triple Eight postal battalion
- Women in Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and modern combat roles
- Expanding opportunities for women in today’s military

What’s Included
- Teacher Direction Page
- Student Planning Page (Color and Black & White)
- Early Finisher / Extension Activities Page
- Historical Contributions Guide planning organizers
- Timeline and “Names to Know” activities
- Group role and research planning sections
- Reflection and critical-thinking prompts
- Free Websites for Student Research

Students Will:
- Analyze how women’s military roles changed over time
- Research important women and military units across U.S. history
- Explore barriers women faced in military service
- Create a Historical Contributions Guide with timelines and featured individuals
- Practice collaboration, organization, research, and presentation skills
- Reflect on why many women’s contributions were historically overlooked

Perfect For:
- U.S. History
- Military History
- Women’s History Month
- Civics & Government
- Emergency Sub Plans
- Research Projects
- Fast Finishers & Extension Work
- Group Projects
- Grades 6–10

Why Teachers Love It
- Ready-to-use and low prep
- Strong historical and civic connections
- Encourages meaningful discussion and inquiry
- Sub-friendly lesson structure
- Includes both color and print-friendly versions
- Promotes representation and historical awareness
- Flexible for group, partner, or independent work

Cross-Curricular Connections
- U.S. History
- Civics
- Women’s Studies
- Research Skills
- Informational Writing
- Presentation & Design
- Historical Analysis