The First World War - Long Term Causes

This lesson explores the long-term causes of World War I, focusing on militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism (MAIN). Students will examine historical factors leading to the war, analyse primary sources, and discuss how these factors increased tensions in Europe. Activities include a think-pair-share discussion, timeline sorting, MAIN factor analysis, and PEEL paragraph writing. The lesson concludes with a ranking activity to evaluate the importance of each factor.

Lesson Content and Activities:

Introduction:

Discussion on the reasons for war and whether it is ever justified.
Think-pair-share activity on why humans go to war.
Europe in 1914:

Overview of the relative peace in Europe since 1815 and the changes in military technology.
Definition of Long-Term Factors:

Explanation of historical factors and the difference between short-term and long-term factors.
Short- or Long-Term Factors:

Activity to differentiate between short-term and long-term historical events.
MAIN Factors:

Introduction to militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism as the MAIN causes of WWI.
Worksheet activity to analyse each MAIN factor and rate their importance.
Which MAIN Was It Mainly?

Read statements and identify whether they reflect militarism, alliances, imperialism, or nationalism.
PEEL Paragraph Writing:

Practice writing PEEL paragraphs on the long-term causes of WWI using militarism as an example.
Write a PEEL paragraph on another MAIN factor and peer review partners’ paragraphs.
Ranking Activity:

Work with a partner to rank the MAIN factors in order of importance.
Discuss and justify rankings.
Resources:

MAIN factor worksheet
Timeline cards
PEEL paragraph examples and planning sheet
Taken from a series of over 30 First World War lessons made by Wolsey Academy. They provide a thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of 20th Century History and each lesson looks to focus on a range of historical skills and exam techniques to equip students with knowledge and transferable research, analysis and study skills.

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