How did African Americans participate in the Union Army during the Civil War and how do you make certain all people can access opportunities previously denied? Objective Students will become familiar with the participation of African Americans in the Union Army during the Civil War, how they were treated, where specifically the 1st Kansas Colored Infantry fought, and what they accomplished. Students will also become familiar with using primary sources Background Discuss teaching elementary how to work with primary sources: Four steps. Download worksheets that walk elementary students through t Duration: 30 Minutes.