the Great War
WWI: Causes, Trenches, Tech, and People
1. What conditions in Europe led to World War I?
View the linked video to refresh your memory regarding the causes of WWI then fill in the blank below: MAIN CAUSES of WWI
A ________________
I _________________
N ________________
Event that "sparked" the war? ___________________
2. Describe what is happening in this series of screen captures from actual WWI film footage.
3. Trench Warfare
- Why was trench warfare necessary in World War I?
- What was the worst part of trench life?
- Explain how would trench foot impact military success?
Infections - WW1 Uncut - BBC
4. APARTS - "In Flanders Fields" a Classic WWI Poem.
A-Author
P-Place & Time
A-Audience
R-Reason
T-the Main Idea
If the original document is difficult to read, find a text copy online!
5. What does the phrase "living history" mean? How does the passing away of WWI veterans change the history of WWI?
Consider reading the following article before responding: "Britain's Very Last World War One Veterans"
6. General John Pershing: What Makes for a Good Military Leader?
- Search for a brief bio on General Pershing then create a statement, in your words, that describes General Pershing's contributions to WWI. (why is he famous and remembered? what was his role?)
7. Alvin York, Medal of Honor Recipient
- What is purpose of the document posted below?
- What is the difference between a volunteer and a draftee?
- What does it take to earn a Medal of Honor?
- How did Alvin York win his Medal of Honor? (watch video clip)
Alvin C. York and his Military Awards
8. Harlem Hellfighters of WWI, what was their contribution and why do you think it matters. In what other wars did the Harlem Hellfighters fight?
- Who were the Harlem Hellfighters?
- "Harlem Hellfighters" History Channel (6mins)
9. Identify all military tech pictured in the following images
- Type of weapon
- Purpose of weapon (hand-to-hand, crossing no mans land, etc.)
- Which one would you find most valuable during WWI?
Tanks - WW1 Uncut: Dan Snow - BBC
Machine Guns - WW1 Uncut: Dan Snow
10. WWI featured the use of chemical weapons on the battlefield... Mustard Gas
1. What was the effect of mustard gas on the body?
2. Which side used mustard gas in WWI?
3. How would using chemical warfare be an advantage?