Modern History Research Project

Title: Modern History Research Project

Author: Sarah White

Grade Level: 9-12

Summary of Lesson: Student will use Gale databases to research a topic in modern history, create a Powerpoint presentation, and present to the class.

Focus Question: What have been the most significant historical events in the last 20 years?

Databases(s): Student Resource Center, Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center

Procedures:

Steps / Activities by Teacher

• Arrange for student access to Gale databases.
• Assign students research topics in history from 1990 to the present. You may also allow students to choose their own topic.
• Allow for class time to research, create Powerpoint presentations and perform class presentations.
• Copy directions and rubric provided.

Steps/Activities by student(s):

• Research topic.
• Create Powerpoint presentation.
• Present to class.
• See directions for more detailed requirements.

Outcome: Students will have an in-depth knowledge of one topic in modern history. They will also benefit from peer research during class presentations.

Related Activities: Students may be asked to write about topics they did not research or take a test on all of the presentation topics.

Standard Date: July, 2008

Content Standard(s):

• Bulleted list of standards
• Apply key concepts such as time, chronology, causality, change, conflict and complexity to explain, analyze and show connections among patterns of historical change and continuity.
• Systematically employ processes of critical historical inquiry to reconstruct and reinterpret the past, such as using a variety of sources and checking their credibility, validating and weighing evidence for claims and searching for causality.
• Locate, access, analyze, organize, synthesize, evaluate and apply information about selected public issues — identifying, describing and evaluating multiple points of view.
• Practice forms of civic discussion and participation consistent with the ideals of citizens in a democratic republic.
• Construct a policy statement and an action plan to achieve one or more goals related to an issue of public concern.

Performance Indicators:

• At Level 1, the student is able to:
  • Use research to describe on contemporary event in U.S. or World History.
• At Level 2, the student is able to:
  • Evaluate the short and long-term effects of the event.
• At Level 3, the student is able to:
  • Analyze the research to make an informed decision about policy regarding this event.

Computer Literacy and Usage Standards 9-12:

• The student will develop skills using a variety of computer resources to increase productivity, support creativity, conduct and evaluate research and improve communications.
• The student will use technology resources to improve problem solving and decision making skills and apply these skills to real world situations.

ISTE NETS for Students

• locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and ethically use information from a variety of sources and media.
• locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and ethically use information from a variety of sources and media.
• plan and manage activities to develop a solution or complete a project.
• collect and analyze data to identify solutions and/or make informed decisions.
• use multiple processes and diverse perspectives to explore alternative solutions.

Information Power; Information Literacy Standards:

• Standard 1: The student who is information literate accesses information efficiently and effectively.
• Standard 2: The student who is information literate evaluates information critically and competently.
• Standard 3: The student who is information literate uses information accurately and creatively.
• Standard 9: The student who contributes positively to the learning community and to society is information literate and participates effectively in groups to pursue and generate information.