World War I Project Guidelines

World War I was known as “The Great War” or “The War to end all Wars.” The Great War was unlike any other war that was fought up to that time in history. In fact, W.W.I revolutionized twentieth century warfare and impacted society in many ways. The purpose of the following assignment is to cause you to become familiar with W.W.I and gain a deeper understanding of its far reaching influence.

Directions: All students MUST complete options 1. In addition, students must complete one of the remaining choices listed in options 2 through 9.

1) Evaluating your Learning

Write a 5 paragraph paper (typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. font, added to option #1) discussing the most important concepts that you learned in this unit. What insights have you gained? Was W.W.I really the war to end all wars? Have your views of the war changed or remained the same? What knowledge have you gained as a result of completing this project?

2) Geographical Perspective

Using whatever materials you choose, create a 3-dimensional map of Europe depicting the countries or the Triple Alliance and the Triple Entente. Be sure to include a map legend, or a key. Write a one pageevaluation describing how the locations of the various countries shaped the alliance system that was instrumental in the outbreak of the war.

3) Role Playing (Partner Option)

You and an approved partner may work together to prepare an interview for a nightly news program. One of you will be the reporter, while the other will simulate the role of a particular personality that is associated with the W.W.I era. Possible choices include, but are not limited to: Kaiser Wilhelm, Czar Nicholas II, Woodrow Wilson. A 2 page detailed script of this interview needs to be turned in with this project. This could be done live or taped for the class to view. You must ask Mr. H for permission before starting this option.

4) Researching a Historical Topic in Depth

Choose one of the following topics and write a two page paper addressing the topic:

  1. Why did W.W.I begin? Was it one single cause or were there numerous incidents that provoked the outbreak of war? Was W.W.I avoidable or was it bound to happen?
  2. Why is W.W.I known as a modern war? How did this war change the nature of modern warfare?
  3. Any other specific topic or aspect of WWI that is approved by Mr. H

5) Making a Statement in Song

Locate 2 War Songs associated with the W.W.I era. Find the song on Youtube or MP3 to present it to the class. Make a copy of the words to the song and analyze their meaning in a one page analysis. Talk to the lyrics track your thoughts and the one page response should be a summary of your thoughts on how the song relates to WWI and things we have learned in class. Also, explain who this music would have appealed to during the war and what significance it has to the time period from 1914-1918.

6) WWI Music Video

Create a music video that describes WWI from start to finish. (like a time line in song form) Or create a music video that explains a specific event or topic of WWI. Use the fleas on rats video as an example of a good music video about history.

7) The Movie Review

Review the movie “All Quiet on the Western Front” or “Gallipoli,” or another approved W.W.I movie. You will then need to summarize and evaluate the movie in a one page review (analyze the characters, the plot, etc. much like in English class with a novel) and present your findings to the class. Pay special attention to historical accuracy when reviewing your movie.

8) WWI Documentary

Create a documentary about WWI or a sub topic of WWI (ex: Life in the trenches, WWI Pilots) This should only be your choice if you have experience using video editing software and have the capabilities to do some of the work outside of class. The documentary should be 6-10 minutes long and should be done in a professional way. If you are choosing this as an option you must get permission from Mr. H before starting.