High School Grade  Project 2 weeks

WWI: The Great War Adventure

Alicia C
Updated
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
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Purpose

This project aims to immerse high school students in the complex and transformative period of World War I by examining the technological innovations that reshaped warfare strategies and outcomes. Through hands-on model creation, interactive digital simulations, and collaborative community engagements, students will critically analyze and understand the profound impact these advancements had on both past and contemporary military practices. This exploration encourages students to think deeply about historical technological developments and their broader implications for today's world, fostering skills in critical thinking and problem-solving within authentic contexts.

Learning goals

Students will investigate how World War I technological advancements such as tanks and airplanes shifted combat tactics and warfare outcomes. They will engage in modeling and simulation to explore engineering principles and critically analyze the effects of these technologies on historical and modern warfare. By collaborating with community experts and presenting their findings, students will develop skills in research, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.

Competencies
  • 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

Throughout this learning experience, students will create small-scale models of WWI technologies such as tanks and airplanes, applying engineering principles using accessible materials. By the end of the project, students will have developed interactive digital simulations in tools like Scratch or Unity, effectively illustrating WWI battlefield strategies influenced by technological advancements. These models and simulations will serve as the focal point for their presentations and exhibits at the 'WWI Innovation Expo.'

Launch

To kick off the learning experience, students will engage in a "Trench Wars Bootcamp" day. Here, they will participate in immersive team-building exercises designed to replicate the conditions of WWI trenches. This hands-on activity will allow students to feel, explore, and reflect on the physical and emotional challenges soldiers faced during the war. It provides a realistic introduction to the impact of technological advancements on soldiers' daily lives, setting the stage for deeper exploration throughout the project. Through collaboration, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will guide their exploration of WWI innovations.

Exhibition

At the 'WWI Innovation Expo,' each student team will present their interactive exhibits and digital simulations, detailing the technological innovations and their impacts on war strategies and outcomes. The expo will feature student-created small-scale models and digital battlefield simulations, allowing attendees to engage with historical advancements firsthand. Students will guide community members through exhibits, providing explanations and leading discussions on the socio-emotional implications of warfare technology.