High School Grade  Project 2 weeks

Victory Vignettes: U.S. History in Focus

Amber P
HS.UH.CO.3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

This project invites the student to explore U.S. military expansion from 1890-1945, examining its roles in key historical events and related global conflicts. Through personal interests in the military, the student will develop critical thinking, self-directed learning, and effective communication skills. By creating a timeline mural and slide presentation with peer and staff feedback, the student connects personal insights with historical analysis while fostering a sense of identity and belonging. The project culminates in a presentation to school staff, emphasizing real-world application and meaningful engagement with history.

Learning goals

The learning goals for this experience include understanding the impact of U.S. military expansion on global and domestic fronts between 1890-1945 and analyzing the United States' role in global compromises and conflicts during this period. The student will develop skills in self-directed learning through continuous feedback, reflection, and by strengthening their academic mindset focusing on military events that align with their interests. This project will also enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities as the student explores historical complexities, and effective communication skills will be cultivated through the preparation and presentation of a Google slide presentation.
Standards
  • [Kentucky] HS.UH.CO.3 - Analyze the role of the United States in global compromises and conflicts between 1890-1945 in the Spanish American War, World War I, the Interwar years and World War II.
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.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

The student will create a detailed Google Slide presentation on U.S. military involvement in global conflicts between 1890-1945, complemented by a visual timeline mural outlining key events during this period. As part of the process, the student will maintain a reflection journal that ties their learning to personal growth and understanding of military history. Midway through the project, the student will present initial findings and the timeline mural to a peer or community partner, using the feedback to refine their final slide presentation. The project culminates in presenting the final product to special education staff for evaluation and insights.

Launch

Kick off the project with a "Military Interest Sharing Session" where the student presents a brief overview of their personal interest in the military through a chosen medium, such as a poster, video, or artifact. Following this presentation, engage in a collaborative discussion to identify aspects of the U.S. military's historical role in global conflicts that align with their interests. Conclude by collaboratively designing a research plan focused on these aspects to guide the project forward.

Exhibition

The student will present their Google slide presentation alongside their timeline mural to special education staff during a culminating exhibition event. This exhibition serves not only as an opportunity for the student to showcase their understanding of U.S. military expansion from 1890-1945 but also allows for interactive feedback from the audience. The event provides a platform for the student to engage with school staff by answering questions and reflecting on how their research connects to their personal interests. This shared learning experience enhances their communication skills and encourages reflective dialogue that ties in their socio-emotional development.