Oklahoma Academic Standard 4. The student will evaluate the global transformation created by the World Wars (1900-1945 CE). 

Objective 4.2  Describe the significant events of World War I, including key strategies, advancements in technology, the war’s significant turning points, and its lasting impact.

In a Nutshell

Students will examine the first World War as the first truly global war. Its timing coincided with rapid advancements in technology which resulted in the way the world interacts today. However, this is objective does not demand an intensive study of battles and personalities, but emphasizes the impact of global warfare and alliances. Students should also be able to explain how the Treaty of Versailles created a post war scenario of discord.

Teacher Action 

Student Action 

• Assist students to develop questions about multiple historical and/or contemporary sources to pursue further inquiry regarding the impact of technology in modern warfare.

• Facilitate student inquiry to assess the significance and impact of individuals and groups throughout significant eras of world history.

• Compare and analyze complex maps to explain relationships between the environment and significant events of the Great War.

• Distinguish multiple causation, immediate and long-term cause-effect relationships by constructing timelines which note significant turning points of World War I.

Key Concepts 

Misconceptions 

• Battle of the Marne, Battle of the Somme

• development and use of new technologies, including chemical warfare, airplanes, tanks, U-boats

• strategy of trench warfare, prolonged siege, "war of attrition"

• intent and conditions of the Treaty of Versailles

• Most students will possess very limited prior knowledge regarding the events of World War I and the impact of technology on modern warfare and civilian populations. While students may be tempted to explore the details of particular technologies, student focus should remain on a larger understanding of the impact of technology on combatants, civilians, and the threat of future wars.

Instructional Resources