Lesson plan based on Fallen Warrior
Analyze ancient and modern military memorials and determine their success in conveying aspects of war and military sacrifice.
Skills and Focus: Discussion, Art Appreciation, Cultural Comparisons, Analysis, Writing
Subject Area: Social Science
Thematic Connection: Comparing Cultures
Grade Level: Secondary School
Time Needed: 90-120 minutes
Objectives
• Evaluate the roles of social institutions like the military.
Instructional Materials Needed
Story: The Shield of Athena
Online Resources:
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial
http://www.nps.gov/vive/index2.htm
The Iwo Jima Memorial
http://www.webtravels.com/iwojima/
American battles
Activity
Step 1: Remind students that Athena’s shield reveals a soldier wounded in battle. Even though the battle resulted in a victory, this warrior collapsed from a wound to his back. Ask students what the fallen warrior’s expression and pose convey about warfare and the military in ancient Greece?
Step 2: Have students research battles in which Americans have been involved (e.g., Gettysburg or Iwo Jima). Discuss their findings, and ask whether they think the Fallen Warrior sculpture realistically conveys the reality of battle and why.
Step 3: Have students research monuments to fallen American soldiers (e.g., the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C.). Ask students to think about how monuments like these evoke the tragedy of warfare and the honor of giving one’s life for one’s country and inspire others to serve their country. Have students write an essay in which they compare American monuments like the Vietnam Memorial to the Fallen Warrior. Essays should include the similarities and differences students perceive in each country’s response to warfare. Students should also explain how each memorial is inspirational. Students should support their opinions with specific visual evidence and documented information.
Goals
This activity meets Illinois State Goal 18: Understand, analyze, and compare social systems with an emphasis on the United States.
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