Aimee DePue

EDU 375

Dr. Lin

March 10, 2006

Reflection #5

The American Revolution “tug-of-war” activity

Prior to the actual “war” activity itself, the instructor hand picked five individuals as volunteers to take part in the “tug-of-war” lesson for the British Army, and picked four to represent the Continental army. Another group of five students were picked to sit on the “sidelines” to watch the other two teams “battle it out.” Within seconds, the “Continental Army” had discovered that they were at a disadvantage, in size and strength. Because they were “smaller” and at such a disadvantage, they had much more desire to win however. The instructor had chosen four petite girls to symbolize the Continental Army; and the British Army included one male and four girls that were taller, “stronger” and looked more intimidating than their “enemies.” This was symbolic because of the very nature of how it was initially for the British Army. In the end, the Continental Army won though!

Proceeding this activity, we all went back to our seats and discussed what types of advantages and disadvantages each army had while fighting in the war. Each group in the class was assigned a section from the text, and asked to fill out the corresponding answers. As a whole, the class explained what they had observed through the activity, what they discovered in the reading, and any other discoveries they made.

There were various aspects to this activity that could really help students with multiple intelligences. For instance, those that learn best through games, movement, and hands-on activities would benefit greatly from this lesson. Intrapersonal children would enjoy this game because if they were on the Continental Army during that time, they would feel the impact of how weak and small they were; it would help make sense for them, what it was like to be part of that army. The third area of multiple intelligences that could utilize this type of game would be the visual/spatial learners. Children who learn best when they see what you are teaching, rather than simply getting book information could greatly appreciate this type of activity.

As a future teacher, I believe that this lesson was extremely useful. The students that were involved felt it more directly than those students that were just observing. It was a fantastic way to teach a lesson on the Revolutionary War, because students become involved directly, feeling the emotions and desire to want to win. Two things that I could see that might possibly help in the future with this lesson, is to actually have “Red” and “Blue” shirts, rather than bandannas. Visually, it might make more connections for students when they are discussing or briefing after the activity. In addition, I would also suggest taking the class into the gym, hallway, or just a bigger room to really “go to war” (tug-of-war.)

I would absolutely utilize something similar to this activity in my future classes. My unit plan for EDU 375 will incorporate some type of activity along this same idea. I know personally, that I need to learn by hands-on activities, not simply by reading information. I think having knowledge in this area will make me a better teacher in the future.