Wars, Wisdom, and Warring States: Unraveled

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Phase	Question Research Create
Activities	Historical Conference Simulation - Begin the project with a dynamic simulation of the Peace of Westphalia, where students assume roles of various state representatives, negotiating treaties and alliances based on historical contexts. This immersive experience introduces key concepts of international relations. (45 min)	Reflection and Debrief - Students reflect on the simulation experience by journaling about the complexities of diplomacy and the balance of power. Discuss reflections in small groups. (20 min) Introduction to Key Terms - Explore essential terms related to international relations, such as sovereignty, multilateralism, and balance of power, through interactive discussions and visual aids. (25 min)	Research Historical Events - Students use library resources and digital tools to research significant historical events since the Peace of Westphalia, focusing on alliances, wars, and treaties. Gather evidence to analyze their impact on current global dynamics. (45 min)	Peer Feedback Session - Share research findings and theory applications with peers for constructive feedback and discussion. Adjust arguments based on feedback received. (20 min)	Drafting Policy Brief - Begin drafting a policy brief that connects historical events and theories to current global issues. Students outline key arguments and gather supporting evidence. Teacher provides guidance and feedback during the drafting process. (45 min)
Deliverables	No deliverables due	No deliverables due	No deliverables due	No deliverables due	No deliverables due
Preparation	1. Assign roles and distribute historical documents for the Peace of Westphalia simulation. 2. Prepare journal prompts for student reflections. 3. Compile a list of key treaties, alliances, and wars for research topics. 4. Organize group presentation guidelines and assessment criteria. 5. Coordinate with Marin County Library for a workshop and reserve a space. 6. Provide access to online databases and archives for student research. 7. Create a feedback form for peer and teacher evaluations of presentations.

Week 2	Day 6	Day 7	Day 8	Day 9	Day 10
Phase	Create Share Reflect Act/Apply
Activities	Finalizing Policy Brief Drafts - Students complete their policy brief drafts, integrating feedback and research from Week 1. Teacher offers targeted guidance during drafting. (25 min) Peer Review Session - Engage in peer review to provide and receive constructive feedback on policy briefs, focusing on argument strength and evidence use. (20 min)	Library Discussion Prep - Prepare to lead a discussion at the local library by developing key points and questions that connect historical events to current issues. Students collaborate to refine their presentation strategies. (25 min) Gallery Walk Setup - Begin creating and organizing artifacts for the gallery walk exhibition, ensuring each piece reflects key learning and insights from the project. (20 min)	Reflective Journaling - Reflect on the learning journey by writing about how historical alliances inform current international relations and personal growth throughout the project. (20 min) Discussion Rehearsal - Practice leading the library discussion in groups, focusing on clear communication and engagement strategies. Receive feedback from peers and teacher. (25 min)	Finalizing Artifacts - Finalize and polish artifacts for the gallery walk, ensuring clarity and alignment with project learning goals. Engage in peer feedback for final revisions. (20 min) Self-Reflection & Feedback - Conduct a self-reflection session to assess personal growth and understanding of international relations theories, using peer and teacher feedback as a guide. (25 min)	Library Discussion - Lead a discussion at the local library, sharing insights on historical events and their impact on current global dynamics with community members. (45 min)
Deliverables	No deliverables due	No deliverables due	No deliverables due	No deliverables due	No deliverables due
Preparation	1. Secure multimedia resources and primary source documents for Monday's activity. 2. Arrange for community partners' participation in Wednesday's discussion. 3. Provide guidelines and templates for drafting policy briefs on Thursday. 4. Organize exhibition space and materials for Friday's gallery walk. 5. Facilitate peer feedback sessions and teacher meetings for critique and revision.