War and Words- World War One Through Soldier Poetry
A dynamic and creative humanities course where students explore World War I history through poetry. Perfect for those interested in history and writing, with weekly opportunities to study and write weekly poems that follow a template.
Kim Guthriegabs M. Ed
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(423)
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What's included
9 live meetings
8 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Students are encouraged to complete and edit their poems that they began in the classroom before posting to the classroom for teacher comments.Assessment
Informal assessment during class. Teacher assessment of the completed poem.Grading
includedClass Experience
US Grade 7 - 10
Beginner Level
No prior knowledge of World War I or poetry is necessary for a student to be successful in class. Using a slide presentation (primary sources, maps, video clips, photos) each class begins with a history lesson on WWI: technology, trench warfare, battles, the homefront, Wilson's 14 Points, or the armistice. Each class is unique and learners may start or stop at any time. After the history section, we next have a short lesson on writing a predetermined poetry style (poem templates and handouts are posted in the classroom). Using poems from published authors and poems from WWI soldiers, we will create new poems using the weekly WWI topic as the theme. Typically, as a class, we create one poem. I encourage learners to write their own poems if time allows, or write one for homework. Learners will be led through the poem-writing process during class.
Learning Goals
NCSS.D2.His.1.9-12. Evaluate how historical events and developments were shaped by unique circumstances of time and place as well as broader historical contexts.CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.R.4. Interpret words and phrases as they are used in a text, including determining technical, connotative, and figurative meanings, and analyze how specific word choices shape meaning or tone
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)9 Units
9 Lessons
over 9 WeeksUnit 1: World War I Begins
Lesson 1:
Why War?
World War I was fueled by a complex web of causes and alliances. The intense rivalries among European powers, imperialistic ambitions, and the intricate system of alliances all played pivotal roles in sparking the conflict that would engulf the world.
Acrostic poem. 55 mins online live lesson
Unit 2: Modern War
Lesson 2:
Technology of WWI
Rifle into the revolutionary technology of World War I and discover how the Industrial Revolution transformed the nature of warfare.
Learners will create a calligram poem. 55 mins online live lesson
Unit 3: Time in the Trench
Lesson 3:
Trench Warfare
Trudge into the world of trench warfare - a mixture of technology and trouble. We'll explore how trench warfare has evolved in previous wars and compare and contrast the unique characteristics of trenches across different nations.
Haiku poem 55 mins online live lesson
Unit 4: Soldiers and Supplies on the Frontlines
Lesson 4:
The Frontlines
Life on the Frontlines: A Glimpse into the Daily Routines of Soldiers.
Limerick poem 55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
Students will have templates and directions for each week's poem posted in the classroom. Students do not need to share their poems with the class. Most students write their poetry as homework, reflecting on the class discussion.
Parental Guidance
This is both a writing and a history class. Students will learn about key events and technology related to World War I. World War I cannot be discussed without talking about the realities of the war: the trenches, death, gassing, injuries, and longing for home.
All references to the war are discussed from the human point of view, seen from the soldier's point of view. Sometimes, their point of view was one of glory, and other times, it was one of despair.
Learners may post their poems on the classroom page or in a Google doc for assessment.
I teach using Canva to show slides and videos during the lesson. I will post poem templates on the classroom page as a file before each week's lesson.
Supply List
Notebook or paper and pen for each class. A small notebook to record the notes about history on one page and writing the poem on the facing page is the best method for success. A thesaurus is recommended for use when writing. *Computer thesaurus' are good to use if it can be used during the class time.
Joined April, 2020
4.9
423reviews
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Teacher expertise and credentials
South Carolina Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Southern Wesleyan
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Limestone University
I have taught middle school world history and writing for over 15 years. I was the lead history teacher at my school and I have been named Writing Teacher of the Year for my school two times. I believe the best way to learn about history is by learning about it from the individual stories that can be told.
I have also had the opportunity to walk in the trenches of Pacchenade, Ypres, the Somme valley, and Belleau Woods. I have been to Flanders Field and the Pool of Peace in Belgium. I have seen the damage of war that remains over 100 years later. My husband's grandfather fought in WWI and I have his stories to pass along. Reviews
Live Group Course
$17
weekly or $150 for 9 classes1x per week, 9 weeks
55 min
Completed by 15 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-16
2-5 learners per class
