Activity Overview
The Treaty of Ghent was signed to end the War of 1812. The concessions it outlined and the effects it had on history are important for students to understand as they study the War of 1812 and the aftermath, as it had major implications for the future of Great Britain’s control over North America and Native claims.
Using a spider map, students will answer the 5 Ws and detail the major components, effects, and stipulations of the Treaty of Ghent. This will allow students to explain and reiterate the full effect of the war and understand how and why treaties are formed.
Example 5 Ws Questions
- WHO was Involved with the Treaty of Ghent?
- WHERE did the Treaty of Ghent Happen?
- WHEN did the Treaty of Ghent Happen?
- WHAT did the Treaty of Ghent Say?
- WHY was the Treaty of Ghent signed?
Extended Activity
Have students create a spider map on another major treaty or piece of legislation, and its implications, effects, and stipulations. Use the graph as a comparison to the Treaty of Ghent. Explain and analyze similarities and differences.
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 5W analysis of the Treaty of Ghent: Who, What, When, Where, and Why.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title box for each cell, type questions for Who, What, When, Where, and Why.
- In the descriptions, answer the question.
- Create an image for each cell with appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
The Treaty of Ghent was signed to end the War of 1812. The concessions it outlined and the effects it had on history are important for students to understand as they study the War of 1812 and the aftermath, as it had major implications for the future of Great Britain’s control over North America and Native claims.
Using a spider map, students will answer the 5 Ws and detail the major components, effects, and stipulations of the Treaty of Ghent. This will allow students to explain and reiterate the full effect of the war and understand how and why treaties are formed.
Example 5 Ws Questions
- WHO was Involved with the Treaty of Ghent?
- WHERE did the Treaty of Ghent Happen?
- WHEN did the Treaty of Ghent Happen?
- WHAT did the Treaty of Ghent Say?
- WHY was the Treaty of Ghent signed?
Extended Activity
Have students create a spider map on another major treaty or piece of legislation, and its implications, effects, and stipulations. Use the graph as a comparison to the Treaty of Ghent. Explain and analyze similarities and differences.
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 5W analysis of the Treaty of Ghent: Who, What, When, Where, and Why.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title box for each cell, type questions for Who, What, When, Where, and Why.
- In the descriptions, answer the question.
- Create an image for each cell with appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Treaty of Ghent 5 Ws
How to Guide Students in Creating a Timeline of Events Leading Up to the Treaty of Ghent
Help students visualize the sequence of events by making a timeline that traces key moments before the Treaty of Ghent. This boosts their understanding of the causes and context of the War of 1812 and its resolution.
Select key events relevant to the Treaty of Ghent
Pick important milestones from the War of 1812, such as battles, peace talks, and diplomatic efforts. Focus on events that directly impacted the creation of the treaty.
Create a visual timeline with clear labels and dates
Draw or use online tools to set up a timeline. Label each event with its date and a brief description. Visual clarity helps students see how events progressed toward the treaty.
Encourage students to illustrate each event
Have students add simple drawings or images that represent each event. Visuals make history memorable and help students better connect with the material.
Discuss how each event influenced the treaty’s outcome
Lead a class discussion or have students write a summary explaining how each event shaped the negotiations and terms of the Treaty of Ghent. This deepens analysis and critical thinking.
Frequently Asked Questions about Treaty of Ghent 5 Ws
What are the 5 Ws of the Treaty of Ghent?
The 5 Ws of the Treaty of Ghent are: Who was involved (the United States and Great Britain), What the treaty stated (ending the War of 1812 and restoring pre-war boundaries), When it was signed (December 24, 1814), Where it was signed (Ghent, Belgium), and Why it was created (to officially end hostilities and restore peace).
How can students create a 5Ws spider map for the Treaty of Ghent?
Students can create a 5Ws spider map by making a central node for the Treaty of Ghent, then adding branches for Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Under each branch, they answer the question and include images or icons that represent each aspect for better understanding.
What were the main effects of the Treaty of Ghent on North America?
The Treaty of Ghent ended the War of 1812, restored boundaries to pre-war lines, and reduced British influence in North America. It also affected Native American claims and set the stage for improved U.S.-British relations.
Why is the Treaty of Ghent important for students to study?
The Treaty of Ghent is important because it helps students understand how wars end, the role of diplomacy, and the treaty’s impact on North America’s future, including Native American rights and U.S.-British relations.
What is the best way to compare the Treaty of Ghent with another treaty in a classroom activity?
The best way is to have students use a spider map or graphic organizer for both treaties, then analyze similarities and differences in their causes, terms, and effects. This visual approach helps students synthesize complex historical information.
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