Authored by Linda Rodriguez
This week I was inspired by a lesson that I observed our colleague Gracie Bellnap do with her AP Bio class: speed dating!
Our AP World History class is studying The Atlantic Revolutions (American, French, Haitian, Latin American) and, to shake things up a bit, I tasked them to research characters from the Atlantic Revolutions – thinkers, leaders, and revolutionaries who shaped the course of history. From the fiery ideals of Toussaint Louverture to the political prowess of Simon Bolivar, each student quickly became an expert on their chosen historical figure. (They had about 30 minutes to research 12 questions about government, society, law, and gender relations for their character).
Once the activity started, the classroom was transformed into a historical matchmaking arena. Students took on the personas of their chosen characters, armed with facts, quotes, and a few character specific pick-up lines. The clock started and the speed dating began. Each “character” had three minutes to introduce themselves, share their philosophies, and gauge their compatibility with their fellow revolutionaries.
The atmosphere was electric as students engaged in lively conversations, navigating the complexities of compatibility based on historical context. It was heartening to witness George Washington bantering with Mary Wollstonecraft, and Catherine the Great engaging in a spirited debate with Olympe de Gouges. Laughter echoed through the classroom as students creatively brought their characters to life.
Beyond the humor and entertainment, this lesson aimed to teach students critical thinking and empathy. By embodying historical figures, students were forced to grapple with diverse perspectives and understand the complexities of the time. The unconventional approach fostered a deeper understanding of the characters’ worldviews and philosophies. In the end, our journey through the Atlantic Revolutions was not just an exploration of the past but a dynamic experience that challenged students to think outside the box. By combining humor with a serious exploration of historical concepts, we created an unforgettable lesson that left a lasting impact on both students and teacher alike. Here’s to more unconventional adventures in the world of education!
Check out some of the students’ pick up lines:
Napoleon Bonaparte: “They say I have a complex about my height, but you make me feel on top of the world.”
John Locke: “I think, therefore I am. And I think you’re beautiful.”
Toussaint Louverture: “Like the resilience of the Haitian spirit, your presence fortifies me against any challenge.”
Adam Smith: “I feel like I hit the jackpot with you ‘cause you are a high yield investment.”
Catherine the Great: “Is your name Peter? Because you’re the only one who is truly ‘great’ for me.”
Marie Antoinette: “Are you a revolutionary? Because I’m losing my head over you.”
King Louis XVI: “Do you believe in Divine Right? Because I feel like it’s my destiny to rule your heart.”