Activity Overview
The story of communism developing in China is complicated. It involved domestic struggle and international conflict. Creating a chronology of these events will help students understand why communism was initially so appealing to many Chinese citizens.
Students will create a storyboard timeline of the development of communism in China in the 20th century. The timeline should include 8-10 cells and must include:
- The role of Sun Yixian, Mao Ze Dong, and Jiang Jieshi
- The role that both WWI and WWII played in creating circumstances for political change in China
- The tensions between the Nationalists and the Communists
- The Long March
- The Great Leap Forward
- The Cultural Revolution
- The harm and benefits of Mao’s implementation of communism
For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a timeline that illustrates the major events of Chinese communism.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title of each cell, note the major events in the rise of communism.
- In each description box, describe the event.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events and Dates | The events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. The dates provided are correct. | Most of the events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. Most of the dates provided are correct. | Some of the events chosen for the timeline are significant. There may be missing events, or events that are irrelevant. Too many dates may be incorrect. |
| Explanations/Descriptions | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are accurate and provide insight into the significance of the events. | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are mostly accurate and attempt to provide insight into the significance of the events. | There are several glaring inaccuracies in the explanations or descriptions of the events. There may be little or no insight int the significance of the events, or the information provided may be too limited or missing. |
| English Conventions | There are 0-2 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 3-4 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 5 or more mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. |
Activity Overview
The story of communism developing in China is complicated. It involved domestic struggle and international conflict. Creating a chronology of these events will help students understand why communism was initially so appealing to many Chinese citizens.
Students will create a storyboard timeline of the development of communism in China in the 20th century. The timeline should include 8-10 cells and must include:
- The role of Sun Yixian, Mao Ze Dong, and Jiang Jieshi
- The role that both WWI and WWII played in creating circumstances for political change in China
- The tensions between the Nationalists and the Communists
- The Long March
- The Great Leap Forward
- The Cultural Revolution
- The harm and benefits of Mao’s implementation of communism
For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a timeline that illustrates the major events of Chinese communism.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title of each cell, note the major events in the rise of communism.
- In each description box, describe the event.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events and Dates | The events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. The dates provided are correct. | Most of the events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. Most of the dates provided are correct. | Some of the events chosen for the timeline are significant. There may be missing events, or events that are irrelevant. Too many dates may be incorrect. |
| Explanations/Descriptions | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are accurate and provide insight into the significance of the events. | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are mostly accurate and attempt to provide insight into the significance of the events. | There are several glaring inaccuracies in the explanations or descriptions of the events. There may be little or no insight int the significance of the events, or the information provided may be too limited or missing. |
| English Conventions | There are 0-2 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 3-4 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 5 or more mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. |
How Tos about The Road to Communism in China
How to Facilitate Thoughtful Class Discussions About the Timeline
Engage students by initiating a whole-class or small-group discussion after timeline creation. Encourage students to share insights, compare timelines, and ask questions about the events. This deepens understanding and helps students connect historical events to broader themes.
Prompt Students to Reflect on Cause and Effect
Ask students to identify how one event led to another on their timelines. Guide them to think critically about connections, such as how the Long March influenced later policies. This reinforces historical thinking skills and helps students grasp the complexity of history.
Incorporate Primary Sources for Deeper Analysis
Share excerpts from speeches, posters, or photographs related to key events. Have students analyze these sources within their timelines, adding context and personal perspectives. This brings history to life and supports visual learning.
Encourage Peer Feedback on Timeline Projects
Organize a gallery walk or online showcase where students view each other's timelines. Prompt students to give constructive feedback about historical accuracy and creativity. This fosters collaboration and builds confidence in sharing ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Road to Communism in China
What are the key events in the rise of communism in China?
Key events in the rise of communism in China include the leadership of Sun Yixian, the conflict between Nationalists and Communists, the Long March, World War I and II's impact, Mao Zedong's rise, the Great Leap Forward, and the Cultural Revolution.
How can students create a storyboard timeline about Chinese communism?
Students can create a storyboard timeline by dividing events into 8-10 cells, labeling each with a major event, writing brief descriptions, and adding illustrations that represent key figures and moments in the development of communism in China.
Why was communism appealing to many Chinese citizens in the 20th century?
Communism appealed to many Chinese citizens due to promises of equality, land reform, and an end to corruption and foreign influence, especially during times of war, poverty, and unstable leadership.
What is the difference between a timeline and a timeline poster for a classroom activity?
A timeline is a sequence of events in order, often linear, while a timeline poster is a more visual, creative display that can be used for presentations or gallery walks, allowing for group collaboration and enhanced visuals.
Who were the main figures involved in the development of communism in China?
Main figures include Sun Yixian (Sun Yat-sen), Mao Zedong, and Jiang Jieshi (Chiang Kai-shek), each playing significant roles in shaping China's political path during the 20th century.
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