Why Study History? A Back To School Activity & Lesson Plan
Key Takeaway: Unlock the profound significance of studying history with our compelling lesson. From understanding human behavior to shaping a future rooted in knowledge, delve into the vital reasons history holds a key to our collective progress.
Why is studying history important, and what insights does it offer? Explore this lesson, delving into the profound reasons behind studying history. From understanding human behavior to shaping informed decisions, discover the crucial insights history provides for a more enlightened and progressive society.
Why Study History? Making the Past Relevant for Today
Why study history? Beyond dates and events, this lesson unravels the powerful reasons behind delving into the past. Discover how history provides insights into human nature, informs decision-making, and shapes a society's trajectory. Join us on a journey that goes beyond textbooks, highlighting the invaluable lessons history imparts for a more informed and enlightened future.
Do you remember your middle school or high school history classes? What memories come to mind? Maybe excitement, stories of adventure, or maybe just day-dreaming as you were zoning off into your own little world! When I was in class, I remember thinking and asking myself:
"Why do we study history anyway?"
"When am I ever going to use this stuff in life?"
"Isn’t history about a bunch of old, dead people and things that have already happened?"
Why Ask Why? STUDENTS WANT TO KNOW WHY
Asking why is a vital part of learning and is actually a great question to ask! The question of why should not be dismissed, but instead, it should be explored. It is the inquisitive mind that asks why, and students who ask why are the students that truly want to learn. Start the first day of school, or the first lesson of any history unit, with “WHY” because students always want to know why?
Right from the beginning of any unit, I like to start with why. I have found that the “WHY” must be answered before the “WHAT.” When students know why, then learning can begin. If there is no why, then it seems like a waste of time to students. So with this question of why in mind, I have developed and tweaked this back-to-school lesson for my classroom. I begin the first day of any history class going through this classroom discussion to convince my students that history is truly important to their lives. This format has proven to be beneficial, and if you don't already have a resource like this, I encourage you to give it a try.
MakING THE PAST COME ALIVE
This back to school activity is a must have for any history or social studies class studying the importance of history! Start the first day of school, or the first lesson of any history class, with “WHY” because students always want to know why! Why am I learning about history? Why do we have to study this stuff anyway? When am I ever going to use this in life? Isn’t history about a "bunch of old dead people" and things that have already happened?
You’ve heard these questions before. These are great questions that should not be dismissed but rather explored. I always begin my first day of any history class going through this classroom discussion to convince my students that history is truly important for them. I have found that the “WHY” must be answered before the “WHAT.” When students know why, then learning can begin.
I typically use this for a first day of school, or first day of any history lesson! I hope this resource helps your students as much as it has helped mine, and gets them excited about learning history! Enjoy this quality “NO-PREP” mini-lesson.
⭐️ Read more about this resource on my blog post
What’s Included:
A full set of notes to lead the discussion in a Google Slides format.
A note to the teacher that helps explain why history is so important.
Lesson ideas to incorporate before and after the presentation.
6 reasons as to “Why we study history?" to present to students.
A link to an inspirational 4 min video about history's influence.
Numerous discussion notes and evidences for each of the 6 points to help the teacher lead the large group discussion and/or lecture without having to do your own research.
A post reflection writing activity and a simple quiz template to asses students on the 6 reasons why.
All resources are accessible in GOOGLE Drive format.
GOOGLE Drive version is completely editable if you'd like to change or add additional reasons as to why history is important.
This is ready to go with “NO PREP” and no research needed. Woohoo!
More Details:
This resource can be used for any history related class! It covers the importance of knowing and studying history. It is meant to help students see the practical value in history. The lesson will guide you through six important reasons to study history such as learning from past mistakes and being able to foresee future events. There is no specific era or time period represented. I use this lesson to introduce all of my history classes, and I have taught a variety of history courses including U.S. History, Western Civilization, and Ancient World History. Enjoy helping your students see the value in studying history with this practical, yet engaging resource! Download a sample preview here!
☞ "This resource is excellent. The layout and design is professional quality, as well as pedagogically sound. I used components during the first week of school to engage my World History students and build interest in the class. There was a visible, positive student response and visible engagement -- which means I had zero behavioral issues as a result. Can you give any higher praise than that?" - Ronald ★★★★★!
⭐️ Also available on Teachers Pay Teachers
⭐️ Have fun with these fashionable history t-shirts, stickers, & more!
Thank You!
Thanks so much for stopping by! It's great to meet you! I hope this resource adds value to your classroom. If you have time, I'd love for you to leave a rating on this product with your awesome feedback, and make sure to follow Mister Harms for important updates and savings. I would also love to see how you've incorporated this product into your classroom. Feel free to post a photo of this resource in action and tag @misterharms so I can meet you! I hope you have a wonderful day!
Want More?
I know this activity will help your students as it has certainly helped my students get excited about learning and understanding the importance of history! If you are hesitant in knowing how to convince your students why they should study history, I have included all of my notes with examples throughout history to prove to students the importance of history.
I am including these teacher notes and the 6 reasons why, so you don't have to do any research — woohoo! In addition to the discussion slides and teacher notes, you will receive a few lesson ideas, a reinforcement activity, and a quiz template for additional assessment. All files are in a printable PDF as are also available in a Google Drive format for those who prefer Google Classroom. These digital files are even editable for your own adjustments and preferences.
Start your school year off right. Incorporate this “no-prep” Why study history lesson with your students and get them engaged in studying history! What other helpful things have you done at the beginning of the school year to hook your students and get them engaged in History? I’d love to hear from you! Let me know in the comments below or contact Mister Harms.
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