Causes of World War I Lesson - Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism & Nationalism

This lesson explores why World War I happened by examining the main causes: militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism. The activities are engaging for students, and the guided 6-E format is easy for you to use—everything you need is included!

Start with a thought-provoking “The Verdict” warm-up, then check understanding with a “Fact or Fiction?” activity. Students build knowledge with guided notes and create a foldable or digital chart to organize the main causes of WWI. A Reader’s Theatre activity uses a relatable recess scenario to model how conflict escalates. A “What if…?” activity encourages students to consider alternate outcomes before wrapping up with an exit ticket assessment.

What’s Included:

• Guided Lesson Slides
• Fill-in Notes
• Foldable Template
• Script: Class Skit
• Exit Ticket Activity
• Answer Keys
• Teacher Guide

Why Teachers Love This Lesson:

• Engaging activities make complex causes of WWI easy to understand
• Structured 6-E format supports clear, step-by-step instruction
• Reader’s Theatre provides a memorable way to model conflict escalation
• Built-in notes, organizers, and assessments make the lesson easy to use

Skills Covered:

• Analyze the causes of World War I
• Explain how militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism led to conflict
• Evaluate how events can escalate into global conflict

Aligned with Social Studies Standards:

• CCSS, TEKS, ELPS & NCSS