Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024
Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond
Grade Level: 10-12 (This book deals with complex geographical and historical concepts)
Subject: World History, Geography
Time Allotment: 4-5 Weeks (depending on reading pace and activities)
Learning Objectives:
- Students will analyze Jared Diamond's theories explaining the unequal development of human societies across the globe.
- Students will evaluate the role of geography, environment, and resource availability in shaping human history.
- Students will develop critical thinking skills by questioning historical narratives and considering alternative explanations.
- Students will improve research and communication skills through discussions, debates, and presentations.
- Students will gain a broader understanding of global interconnectedness and the factors shaping the modern world.
Materials:
- Copies of "Guns, Germs, and Steel" by Jared Diamond (excerpts or adapted version for students)
- Maps of the world highlighting geographical features (continents, climate zones)
- Images and videos depicting the development of agriculture, domestication of animals, and technological advancements in different regions
- Whiteboard or projector
- Markers or pens
- Handouts with key concepts, vocabulary definitions, discussion prompts, and graphic organizers
- Access to online resources (optional)
Lesson Outline:
Week 1: Introduction and Core Theories
- Day 1: Introduction: Brainstorm student understanding of historical development and factors influencing societal advancement. Briefly introduce Jared Diamond and his work.
- Day 2-3: Core Theories: Students read introductory chapters focusing on Diamond's main arguments: geographical advantages of Eurasia, importance of domesticable plants and animals, and the development of technology.
- Day 4: Activity: Students create a chart comparing the advantages and disadvantages of different geographical regions (e.g., Eurasia vs. Africa) for early human societies.
- Day 5: Discussion: Evaluate the plausibility of Diamond's arguments. Consider alternative explanations for the unequal development of human societies.
Week 2: Geography, Environment, and Domestication
- Day 6-7: Geography and Environment: Students read chapters focusing on the influence of geography (東西南北 dōng xī nán běi - east, west, south, north) and climate on the development of agriculture and animal domestication. Analyze maps and images.
- Day 8: Activity: Students research specific examples of plant and animal domestication in different regions and present their findings to the class.
- Day 9-10: Discussion: Explore the complex relationship between humans, environment, and resource availability. Analyze how geography favored certain regions for agricultural development.
Week 3: Technology, Disease, and Empires
- Day 11-12: Technology: Students read about the development of different technologies (weapons, germs, writing) and their impact on the rise of empires.
- Day 13: Activity: Students research and compare advancements in technology across different civilizations (e.g., steel production in Europe vs. gunpowder in China).
- Day 14-15: Disease and Empires: Analyze the role of infectious diseases in shaping interactions between societies. Discuss the concept of "guns, germs, and steel" as a combined advantage.
Week 4: Critiques and Alternative Perspectives
- Day 16-17: Critiques of Diamond: Students read excerpts from critiques of Diamond's theories, focusing on the role of culture, social structures, and human agency in historical development.
- Day 18: Activity: Students participate in a debate: "To what extent do geographical factors explain the development of civilizations?"
- Day 19-20: Alternative Perspectives: Discuss the importance of considering cultural diversity and the contributions of various civilizations to global history.
Week 5 (Optional): Legacy and Relevance
- Day 21: Legacy of "Guns, Germs, and Steel": Analyze the book's impact on our understanding of history and its strengths and weaknesses.
- Day 22: Activity: Students write a persuasive essay arguing for or against the centrality of geography in explaining historical development.
- Day 23-24: Global Interconnectedness: Discuss how advancements in different regions eventually led to global interconnectedness and exchange.
- Day 25: Wrap-Up Discussion: Reflect on the book's relevance to contemporary global issues and how understanding history can inform our present.
Differentiation:
- Provide scaffolding and support for struggling readers through summaries, graphic organizers, and audio versions of the book (if available).
- Offer choice in activities and assessments to cater to different learning styles.