Middle School, High School Grades  Project 6 weeks

Revolution Remix: History Unplugged!

Amanda B
SS.PS1.b.m
SS.PS1.b.h
SS.Hist3.a.m
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

This project aims to immerse students in the exploration of significant revolutions in U.S. history, encouraging them to critically analyze and reflect on how these events have shaped political and social structures. By engaging in hands-on, collaborative activities such as creating digital timelines and interactive museum exhibits, students will develop a deeper understanding of historical contexts and their modern-day implications. The experience fosters self-directed learning, critical thinking, and a sense of identity, allowing students to connect past events to current societal issues meaningfully.

Learning goals

Students will explore and analyze the impact of major revolutions on US political culture and societal norms by engaging with primary and secondary sources. They will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the creation of digital timelines and interactive museum exhibits that reflect the cultural and political climate of different eras. Through self-directed learning and reflection, students will build a deeper understanding of historical events and their relevance to contemporary issues, fostering a sense of identity and belonging within their communities.
Standards
  • [Wisconsin] SS.PS1.b.m - Hypothesize and defend why a specific historically significant person’s contribution to the development of the political culture of the United States was important. Investigate how principles expressed in the Declaration of Independence, Constitution (including the Preamble and the Bill of Rights) have been applied throughout United States history, including how they may have evolved over time. Assess specific protections to individuals outlined in the Wisconsin Constitution and what they mean to local communities and regions of the state.
  • [Wisconsin] SS.PS1.b.h - Evaluate the work and actions of historically significant people and their contributions to the founding principles of the United States. Analyze the foundational ideas of United States government that are embedded in founding era documents. Analyze landmark Supreme Court decisions regarding how the Constitution and the Bill of Rights limit the government, protect individual rights, support the principle of majority rule while protecting the rights of the minority, and promotes the general welfare. Analyze the meaning and importance of rights in the Wisconsin Constitution, and compare or contrast to the United States Constitution.
  • [Wisconsin] SS.Hist3.a.m - Compare events from United States or world history to a current issue or event.
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 a digital timeline showcasing key events and impacts of a chosen revolution, accompanied by reflective writings on societal changes. They will develop an interactive digital museum exhibit, designing virtual rooms that feature curated artifacts, music, and art from the revolution's era. Additionally, students will produce multimedia presentations that delve into the cultural and political ramifications of revolutions, incorporating historical artifacts and literature. Finally, students will participate in a gallery walk, presenting visual projects that express their personal reflections on a specific revolution's impact.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with an engaging "Revolutionary Scavenger Hunt." Students will explore various locations around the classroom or school, uncovering clues that reveal key facts and figures from significant US revolutions. This activity will ignite curiosity and set the stage for deeper exploration of how these revolutions have influenced societal norms and power structures.

Exhibition

Host a "Revolutionary Showcase" where students present their interactive digital museum exhibits to peers, teachers, and community members. Each virtual room can be projected onto screens or shared via tablets, allowing attendees to explore and engage with the curated artifacts, music, and art. Incorporate a live Q&A session where students articulate their research process and insights, fostering a deeper understanding of the revolutions' impacts. Conclude with a reflection circle where students share personal growth and newfound perspectives gained throughout the project.