Road To Revolution

In my American History I class, we are currently studying the Revolution.  It truly is an incredible moment in our country's history - and one that begs many questions about the nature of "America."  In that effort, My students had an assignment to create an illustrated road map to Revolution.  Essentially, they were required to think about the causes of revolt, and create a hands-on map that could guide interested parties to the final destination: a revolution.  Each event was to include a written (and illustrated) description, while simultaneously answering the question of how this particular event this leads us closer to revolt.

Typically, assignments like this produce mixed results - and this one was no different. Some groups produced a blank page of stick figures and dates - while others created elaborate images, compete with detailed analysis of the causes.

But I was particularly struck by the one project pictured here.  A group of three students produced this in under 30 minutes. Their work is impressive, and helps to support the idea that we can use history to illicit creativity in our classrooms.  If possible, and if time allows - students can create great products, using history as the catalyst.  I hope that our next production can equal the success of this.