World War I / Lesson Plan

PDF

Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the causes, key events, and consequences of World War I.

Materials and Prep

  • Pen and paper
  • Internet access for research
  • World War I textbook or online resources

Before starting the lesson, it would be helpful to have a basic understanding of World War I and its major players.

Activities

  • Research and Create a Timeline: Use your textbook or online resources to research the key events of World War I. Create a timeline on paper or using a digital tool to visually represent the sequence of events.
  • Role Play: Choose a historical figure from World War I, such as Woodrow Wilson or Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and prepare a short role play where you act out a significant event or speech related to the war.
  • Write a Letter: Imagine you are a soldier fighting in World War I. Write a letter home to your family describing your experiences, emotions, and thoughts about the war.
  • Create a Propaganda Poster: Design a propaganda poster that encourages people to support the war effort. Use powerful images and persuasive slogans to convey your message.
  • Debate: Divide into teams and hold a debate on the topic of whether or not the Treaty of Versailles was fair. Research arguments for both sides and present your case using evidence and reasoning.

Talking Points

  • "World War I, also known as the Great War, was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918."
  • "The war was triggered by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary, which led to a series of alliances and escalating tensions between European powers."
  • "Countries involved in the war included major powers like Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire, as well as Allied forces such as France, Britain, and Russia."
  • "Trench warfare was a defining feature of World War I, with soldiers fighting from elaborate systems of trenches dug into the ground."
  • "New weapons and technologies, such as machine guns, tanks, and chemical weapons, dramatically increased the scale and devastation of the war."
  • "The United States entered the war in 1917, tipping the balance in favor of the Allies and ultimately leading to their victory."
  • "The Treaty of Versailles, signed in 1919, imposed harsh terms on Germany and other Central Powers, which some argue laid the groundwork for future conflicts."
  • "World War I had a profound impact on the world, leading to significant political, social, and economic changes, and setting the stage for future conflicts."