Are we still in an Industrial Revolution?

After our PLC with Katie Rymon from the National Museum of Industrial History, let’s reflect and connect.

We explored big questions—How did the Industrial Revolution shape the modern world? Are we still living in it? What are the impacts of our choices, individually and collectively?—and highlighted some classroom-ready activities like OER Project's causation lesson, Urbanization Game, and Igniting Industry and NMIH's digital learning materials.

As you think about your own practice:

  • How do you teach the periodization of industrialization? Do you frame it as multiple waves? Craig found this article that offers 4 periods of industrialization! Our in-house historian says there may still be debate about the 4th era listed, so that could be a cool spark for student claims.

  • Which classroom activity or resource stands out to you?

  • How might U.S. teachers adapt what was shared to fit your specific standards or content?

  • What’s one idea you’re excited to try with students?

Share your takeaways so we can learn from one another—and keep the conversation (and the revolution?) going.

Top Replies

  • I frame industrialization for my students as a series of transformative phases that begin with mechanized production in Britain and expand through later innovations (like railroads, steel, mass production…

  • I loved the character cards- I think the students can connect with real people- especially young people.  Using them as a way to spark discussion seems like a great way to get students engaged.  Also liked…

  • I have used the information on 4 stages of industrialization. This year I want to incorporate the Urbanization Game to have students see a more personal and practical side. I am excited to look into the…

Parents
  • I loved the character cards- I think the students can connect with real people- especially young people.  Using them as a way to spark discussion seems like a great way to get students engaged.  Also liked the object-based learning--I do a few activities using the visible thinking routine "see, think, wonder" and objects are a great way to get students talking and asking questions.  In my US History class we just wrapped up this unit (so I'm saving all these resources for next year!) and the students in general connect to industrialization because they understand the role of work in their lives/their families' lives and they connect to technological advancements.

Reply
  • I loved the character cards- I think the students can connect with real people- especially young people.  Using them as a way to spark discussion seems like a great way to get students engaged.  Also liked the object-based learning--I do a few activities using the visible thinking routine "see, think, wonder" and objects are a great way to get students talking and asking questions.  In my US History class we just wrapped up this unit (so I'm saving all these resources for next year!) and the students in general connect to industrialization because they understand the role of work in their lives/their families' lives and they connect to technological advancements.

Children