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How Does History Shape Our Identity

Lesson Plan

Identity Through Time

Students will analyze the profound connection between historical events and the formation of personal and collective identity, understanding history as a living force that influences who we are today.

Understanding how history shapes identity helps students connect with their past, make sense of their present, and critically engage with their role in shaping the future. It fosters empathy and a deeper appreciation for diverse perspectives.

Audience

9th Grade

Time

60 minutes

Approach

Interactive discussion and personal reflection.

Materials

Our Historical Selves Presentation, Identity & Ancestry Circle Questions, and My Historical Footprint Reflection

Prep

Review Materials

15 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up: What is Identity?

10 minutes

  • Begin with a brief discussion: "What comes to mind when you hear the word 'identity'?" (5 minutes)
  • Introduce the lesson objectives using the Our Historical Selves Presentation. (5 minutes)

Step 2

Presentation: History & Identity

15 minutes

  • Present slides from Our Historical Selves Presentation focusing on how historical events (local, national, global) influence personal and collective identity.
  • Encourage students to think about how past events might have shaped their families or communities.

Step 3

Group Discussion: Identity & Ancestry Circle

20 minutes

  • Divide students into small groups (3-4 students).
  • Distribute Identity & Ancestry Circle Questions.
  • Instruct groups to discuss the questions, encouraging them to share personal reflections on their historical footprint (family history, cultural heritage, etc.).
  • Circulate to facilitate discussions and answer questions.

Step 4

Individual Reflection: My Historical Footprint

10 minutes

  • Distribute My Historical Footprint Reflection for individual work.
  • Students will write a short reflection connecting historical events to their own identity, drawing from the group discussion.
  • Collect reflections at the end of class.

Step 5

Wrap-Up: Key Takeaways

5 minutes

  • Bring the class back together.
  • Briefly summarize the main points: History is not just facts; it's a part of who we are.
  • Ask students for one new insight they gained.
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Slide Deck

How Does History Shape Our Identity?

Understanding Our Historical Selves.

Let's embark on a journey to discover the profound connections between the past and who we are today!

Welcome students and introduce the captivating topic of how history isn't just about dates, but about who we are. Emphasize that we're going on a journey of self-discovery through time.

Our Objective Today

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Analyze the connection between historical events and personal identity.
  • Explore how collective history influences group identity.
  • Reflect on your own historical footprint.

Clearly state the learning objective for the lesson. Encourage students to think about how they will be able to answer this question by the end of the lesson.

What is Identity?

Who are you?

What makes you, YOU?

Is identity fixed or fluid?

Start with a thought-provoking question to engage students and activate their prior knowledge about identity. Facilitate a brief discussion, asking students to share initial thoughts without judgment.

History: More Than Just Dates

History is not just a collection of dates and names.

It's a tapestry of stories, experiences, and legacies.

It's the foundation upon which our present is built.

Transition from personal identity to the broader concept of history. Explain that history isn't just about memorizing facts, but about understanding a living narrative that impacts us.

Personal & Collective Identity

How do historical events influence:

  • Your Personal Story? (Family history, traditions)
  • Our Collective Story? (Community values, national narratives, global events)

Introduce the idea that history can be both personal (family history) and collective (community, national, global). Give a few quick examples without going too deep, as the discussion activity will delve into this.

Identity & Ancestry Circle

In your groups, you will discuss the provided questions.

Listen actively
Share thoughtfully
Respect all perspectives

Explain the upcoming group activity. Emphasize the importance of respectful listening and sharing within their groups.

My Historical Footprint Reflection

You will have time for individual reflection.

Think about how history has shaped YOUR identity.

Connect big historical ideas to your personal story.

Introduce the individual reflection activity. Explain that this is a chance for students to synthesize their learning and connect it to their own lives.

History: A Living Force

History is not distant; it lives within us.

It shapes our values, our beliefs, and our future.

What will your historical footprint be?

Conclude the presentation by reinforcing the main idea: history is an integral part of who we are. Open the floor for any final thoughts or questions before transitioning to the next activity.

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Discussion

Identity & Ancestry Circle Questions

Welcome to our Identity & Ancestry Circle! In your groups, take turns discussing the questions below. Remember to listen actively and share respectfully. There are no right or wrong answers, only diverse experiences and perspectives.

Part 1: Your Personal & Family Story

  1. What is one story or tradition from your family history that is meaningful to you? How has it shaped a part of who you are today?






  2. Can you identify any significant historical events (local, national, or global) that directly impacted your family or ancestors? What was the impact?






  3. How do your family's cultural background or traditions connect to a larger historical narrative or movement?






Part 2: Community & Collective Identity

  1. Think about the community you grew up in or currently live in. What historical events or figures have played a significant role in shaping that community's identity?






  2. How do collective historical narratives (e.g., national holidays, shared historical symbols) contribute to a sense of belonging or shared identity among people?






Part 3: Reflecting on Your Historical Footprint

  1. Based on our discussion, how do you see history (both big and small events) as a living force in your own identity?











  2. What is one new insight you gained about the connection between history and identity through this discussion?



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Journal

My Historical Footprint Reflection

Take some time to reflect on today's lesson and discussion. Consider how history has shaped you, your family, and your community. Write thoughtful responses to the prompts below.

Prompt 1: Defining Your Footprint

What does the term "historical footprint" mean to you? How would you describe your own historical footprint, considering your family, community, and any broader historical events that have influenced you?











Prompt 2: Personal Impact of History

Identify one specific historical event (it could be something from your family's past, a local event, or a major world event) and explain how it has directly or indirectly influenced a part of your identity, values, or worldview.











Prompt 3: The Importance of Understanding History

Why is it important for individuals to understand their connection to history and how it shapes their identity? How might this understanding impact your choices or perspectives in the future?











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How Does History Shape Our Identity • Lenny Learning