Description
In this one-day lesson, students uncover the human experience of World War I by analyzing authentic photographs and a historical map of the Battle of the Somme. Through close observation and inference, students connect the harsh realities of trench life to the geographic and strategic challenges that defined the Western Front. This visual investigation helps students grasp why the war became a deadly stalemate—and how geography, technology, and endurance shaped its outcome.

Grade Level: 7–12
Duration: 1 class period
DOK 2
 
What’s Included
Primary source photographs: 8 Authentic images depicting trench conditions, soldier life, and battlefront activity
Photo analysis chart focusing on visual evidence and inferencing. 
Battle of the Somme map 
8 DBQ questions 
Teacher guide: Step-by-step instructions and answer key
 
Skills Developed
Primary source analysis and interpretation
Geographic reasoning using historical maps
Evidence-based historical explanation
 
Perfect For
Teachers looking for a focused, evidence-driven activity that helps students visualize the human and strategic realities of World War I. Ideal for integrating critical thinking, source analysis, and discussion into a single engaging class period.