"Who Would You Invite to Dinner?"
Created by Jeff Schill
National Louis University

ID #: 2576

Subject Area: Social Studies
Grade Level: 9

Lesson Summary
This lesson is designed to give students a better understanding of historical figures. Students will split into pre-designed groups to discuss, "What three historical figures they would like to invite to dinner and why?" Once the group has decided on their three individuals they must research the individuals and related events through the Internet, Encarta Interactive Encyclopedia, or DISCovering World History Software programs. They must research the individual's major accomplishments and how they pertain to history. They must also come up with a list of three questions to ask each individual regarding historical events. Once they have gathered the information the groups will put this together in a Powerpoint presentation to be given to the class.

Learning Objectives and Computer Functions
This lesson plan uses 0 objectives.

Problem
Problem Nature
This assignment is designed to get students to think about how history may have been affected if different decisions had been made by major individuals. It also allows them to analyze historical information and decide why individual's reacted the way they did.

Notes on Using Data
Data will be gathered and reported using formats such as the Internet, Word Processors, and Powerpoint. Students are allowed to create and modify data in any fashion they see fit for the project. Data entry work can be divided amoung individuals within the group. Students will be provided a disc in which to save information.

Problem Statement
Today we are going to take a further look at history and individuals who shaped history. Within small groups you are going to answer the question, "What three historical figures would you like to invite to dinner?" Once, as a group, you have decided on three individuals you will research each historical figure through the Internet or research software provided to answer a list of set questions regarding the individuals chosen. These questions will be provided for you and will revolve around the individual's historical significance, major events, and lifestyles. As a group you will gather and organize information to be presented in a ten minute Powerpoint presentation. These presentations will be given on the last day of the lesson. A list of three questions you wish to ask each individual must be included in your presentation.

Data Manipulation
Instructions
The learner used computers at level

Integration Strategies
intermediate

Organization Strategies
Students can use word processor or Powerpoint cards to help organize information. They can group information according to individual accomplishments, hisotical events, and individuals impact upon historical events.

Elaboration Strategies
By developing three questions students are beginning to think how individual decisions shape and mold history. Events take a life of their own and are not simply objects in a textbook. Students can see how and why events took place.

Results Presentation

Students will present their findings through a Powerpoint presentation. The presentation needs to include the historical significance of each individual invited to dinner, along with a list of three questions they would like to ask each historical figure. These questions must pertain to history and revolve around the choices or decisions made by each individual that impacted history. The presentations will be brief but expected to contain text and pictures explaining their choices. A rubric will be handed out explaing further expectations of the presentation.

Activities
Activities Before Using the Computer
A. Class discussion and introduction to assignment.
B. A decision as to who their three individuals will be and why.
C. A copy of the think sheet and general idea of areas to be researched.
D. A copy of Rubric regarding the expectations of the assignment.
E. Organization of groups roles.