7th Grade Why History Lesson Plan

Topic: Why History Matters Today in 2023 More Than Ever

Objectives & Outcomes

• Students will be able to explain why history matters today in 2023 more than ever.
• Students will be able to provide specific examples of how learning about history is important to their lives and the world.

Materials

• History books
• Internet access (optional)

Warm-up

• Show a video or presentation on the importance of history.
• Ask students to write down 3 reasons why history matters today in 2023 more than ever.
• Review answers and discuss as a class.

Direct Instruction

• Define what history is and its importance.
• Explain how history can help us understand the past and its consequences on the present.
• Provide specific examples of how learning about history is important to our lives and the world.
• Use interactive activities and group work to reinforce the concepts.

Guided Practice

• Divide the class into small groups.
• Give each group a specific historical event or period to research and study.
• Provide each group with the necessary resources and materials to successfully conduct their research.
• After the allotted time, have each group present their findings to the class and explain how their chosen event or period is important to the present.
• Use group work to reinforce the concepts.

Independent Practice

• Have students work on a project-based independent practice.
• Give students a specific historical topic or event to research and report on.
• Provide students with the necessary resources and materials to successfully conduct their research.
• Have students present their findings to the class and explain how their chosen topic or event is important to the present.

Closure

• Review the key takeaways from the lesson.
• Ask students to reflect on why learning about history is important and how it can impact their lives and the world.

Assessment

• Observe students during the guided practice and independent practice activities to assess their understanding of the key takeaways and the ability to effectively explain why history matters.
• Collect and review the class book pages or posters created during independent practice to assess student understanding and ability to effectively communicate why history matters.