|
Tech Prep scholars in Ms. Lund’s 9th grade World History I class began investigating the rise and fall of imperial states just days after Russian troops invaded Ukraine. Ms. Lund displayed a diagram illustrating how empires expand by taking over smaller, weaker states, prompting a student to exclaim, “That’s just like what Russia is doing to Ukraine!”
Another student, Malakhi Webb, facetiously remarked, “Russia’s gonna nuke us [the U.S.], I know it!” After a few exaggerated shrieks dissipated, Ms. Lund asked Malakhi, “What makes you say that?”
“Because we’re allies with Ukraine.”
A third student, AJ Holland, then eagerly jumped in. “The U.S. isn’t allied with Ukraine, that’s what it’s all about – Ukraine wants to be part of NATO so Russia’s trying to take them over before it can happen.”
Throughout this display of academic civil discourse, the students truly drove the discussion, drawing clear connections between course content and current world events. In the coming weeks, students will continue to track the Ukrainian crisis, using this contemporary example to better understand the underpinnings of imperialism and how threats of invasion weaken sovereign states in the ancient world and in the 21st century.
“When I think of the staff, students, and families within our Friendship community, I absolutely agree with the President’s sentiment and as heart-wrenching stories and images continue to circulate, I know that we will keep the people of Ukraine in our hearts and minds. As these tragic events unfold, I encourage us to also find inspiration in the resilience and defiance of the Ukrainian people and the unified opposition to Russia from the US and other democracies around the world. At the same time, I think Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the global response presents us with an opportunity to ask important questions to each other and our students.” Social studies is best taught and most engaging when it is approached through the lens of inquiry.
– Michael Stevens, Director of Social Studies
| 
