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7th Grade  Project 2 weeks

Feudal Fumble: Unraveling the Past

Sara G
7.6.3
7.6.9
7.5.6
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to immerse students in the historical transition from feudalism to modern nation-states through active exploration and creative expression. By engaging with medieval artifacts, producing documentaries, and reflecting on historical and personal connections, students will deepen their understanding of complex historical changes and their relevance today. This project fosters critical thinking, self-directed learning, and a sense of identity, enabling students to draw meaningful parallels between past and present societal structures.

Learning goals

Students will explore the decline of feudalism and its impact on the development of modern nation-states, understanding the interconnectedness of historical events and societal changes. They will engage in critical thinking and problem-solving by analyzing historical artifacts and events, drawing connections to contemporary societal structures. Through self-directed learning, students will reflect on their personal insights and growth, while developing an academic mindset that fosters a sense of identity and belonging.
Standards
  • [California] 7.6.3 - Understand the development of feudalism, its role in the medieval European economy, the way in which it was influenced by physical geography (the role of the manor and the growth of towns), and how feudal relationships provided the foundation of political order.
  • [California] 7.6.9 - Know the history of the decline of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula that culminated in the Reconquista and the rise of Spanish and Portuguese kingdoms.
  • [California] 7.5.6 - Analyze the rise of a military society in the late twelfth century and the role of the samurai in that society.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create short documentaries or skits that depict key events and movements leading to the decline of feudalism, which will be showcased at the 'Feudalism Film Festival'. Throughout the project, they will also maintain reflective journals or blog posts that connect historical transitions to modern societal structures. Additionally, students will participate in creating digital feedback submissions, offering and receiving constructive critiques to refine their documentaries or skits before the final exhibition.

Launch

Begin with an immersive role-playing simulation where students are assigned roles as lords, vassals, knights, and serfs within a feudal manor. They will experience a day in the life of their assigned roles, navigating the hierarchical structure and daily challenges. This activity will set the stage for understanding the intricacies of feudalism and spark curiosity about its decline.

Exhibition

Students will organize a 'Feudalism Film Festival,' where they showcase their short documentaries or skits about the decline of feudalism. These creative works will highlight key events and movements that led to the end of feudalism and the rise of modern nation-states. The festival will be attended by classmates, teachers, and community members, providing a platform for students to present their understanding and engage in meaningful discussions.