[Detail] Company "I", 102 Inf., 2b Div., A.E.F.
Lesson Overview
The Great War of 1914-1918 significantly shaped the course of the twentieth century, both at home and abroad. How can this pivotal event be personalized and brought to life for students in the new millennium? Unfortunately, increasingly fewer survivors of the World War I era are alive today to directly share their recollections of this historical time. Yet, by delving into the unique resources of American Memory and by creating World War I period newspapers of differing perspectives, students can gain an enduring understanding of The Great War.
Objectives
Students will be able to:
- utilize varied primary sources to develop a cohesive, comprehensive and historically accurate picture of the World War I era;
- analyze the historical impact of World War I on the U.S. homefront and;
- answer the following essential questions:
- What can be learned about the American character from the manner by which the United States mobilized, prepared, and participated in a world war?
- Were the political and military goals of the Great War worth the staggering loss of human life and social disruption?
- How does the World War of 1914-1918 validate or contradict our feelings of patriotism and reinforce or tear down our pride and gratitude as Americans?
- How does the unfolding of World War I foreshadow the role of the United States as a prominent world power of the twentieth century?
Standards
Time Required
- Four weeks
Recommended Grade Level
- 6-8, 9-12
Topic
- World War I
Era
- Progressive Era to New Era, 1900-1929
Credits
Scott Durham & Margaret Lincoln
