This Week in Core
Choices
Research here
Dates & Deadlines Grading Rubric
Medieval Project
Go back in time to re-create life in Medieval Europe. Here is an opportunity to combine research and creativity! Would you prefer a 3-dimensional model, 2-dimensional art, written report, or video? Decide which medium suits you best. Begin your research on the Medieval Europe page, and explore the links.
Note to those who like partners: No, except for the video. The projects as described are rated for one person. To work with a partner, make it twice as detailed, and show me your plan.
1. Castle
2. War Machine
3. Stained Glass Window
4. Heraldic Banner
5. Bubonic Plague Report
6. Video Drama
This Week in Core
Choices
Research here
Dates & Deadlines Grading Rubric Top of Page
Castle
Download directions and grading rubric
Product:
Show what you have learned about the defensive design of castles. Build a small model castle, with labeled parts.Materials:
- Clay, wood, cardboard, styrofoam, or foam-core poster board.
- Wood or foam-core for the platform, not cardboard.
- Miscellaneous glue, paint, Femo clay, trees, cellophane, etc.
Directions:
- Make it no larger than 2 by 2 feet, please, so it can fit on top of a desk. Points will be deducted for oversize.
- Include all the basic features of 13th-century concentric castles.
- Include and label at least ten offensive/defensive features of your castle, such as portcullis, crenelation, etc.
- You may replicate an existing castle or design your own.
- This project must be created by your own hands, not by a castle kit, Legos, etc.
- Don't forget your name!
War Machine
Download directions and grading rubricProduct:
Are you interested in the weapons and warfare of castle times? Are you mechanically inclined? Build a working model of a historically accurate war machine, accompanied by a written key.
Materials:
- Wood platform
- Wood or metal parts
- String, glue, rubber bands (for a mangonel only! I know, rubber wasn't known yet, but fine twine doesn't hold tension well), sticks, dowels, gears, etc.
Directions:
- Build a working model of one of the following:
(a) counterweighted drawbridge
(b) portcullis
(c) ballista or crossbow
(d) THE CHALLENGE! catapult, trebuchet, or mangonel
- Make it no larger than 2 by 2 feet, please, so it can fit on top of a desk. No large scale lethal weapons!
- This project must be created by your own hands, not from a manufactured kit.
- It must use medieval engineering (no plastic spoon slingshots, no rubber band slingshots, no guns).
- Stand your model on a firm platform.
- Label the parts and write a short key explaining their functions.
- Glue this explanation to the base, so it can be viewed with your project. Don't forget your name!
Stained Glass Window
Download directions and grading rubricProduct:
Research the stained glass windows found in Gothic cathedrals. Design an imitation stained glass window which illustrates an important theme or event in the Middle Ages. Write a one-page explanation according to directions below.
Materials:
- 2 pieces of black construction paper or tag board
- Colored cellophane or tissue
- Craft knife
Directions:
- Research real stained-glass art and write one page explaining how stained glass windows were constructed, and how your picture reflects the Middle Ages in theme and style.
- The size should range from 12 by 18 inches to 18 by 24 inches.
- Draw your design in pencil on the black paper. Leave a one-inch border for stability.
- A paper simulation of a glass window is designed like a sandwich: The black paper is your "bread" and the colored paper is your "filling."
- On the black paper, cut out the design twice with a craft knife.
- Sandwich pieces of colored cellophane in the cut-out areas. Glue them in place. Don't let the "lettuce" fall out!
- Lamination is recommended.
Heraldic Banner
Download directions and grading rubricProduct:
Research the uses and symbols of heraldry. Make a cloth flag, approximately 1.5 by 3 feet, showing a coat of arms. Write a one-page report according to directions below.
Materials:
- Felt or canvas
- Hot glue, liquid glue, or needle and thread
Directions:
- Research the uses and symbols of heraldry. Write a one-page report, describing the use of heraldry, the parts of a traditional coat of arms, and the symbols you included in your banner.
- Choose symbols for your banner. You may use your family's design or design an appropriate new coat of arms.
- Parts may be sewn, embroidered, or glued in place.
Bubonic Plague Report
Download directions and grading rubricProduct:
Research the history of the Bubonic Plague which devastated the 14th century. Make a poster, magazine, or slide presentation to show what you have learned.
Materials:
- Research information
- Poster board, any color, if a poster
- Markers, pen, or computer print
Directions:
- Include pictures, map, and text.
- Include the following information:
- Map and date the spread of the Bubonic plague
- What medieval people thought of the plague
- Scientific fact that we know now
- Diagram the way the disease spread between rats and fleas and people.
- Arrange information in a neat and readable design.
Video Drama
Download directions and grading rubricProduct:
Create a 9 to 10 minute video of a drama which is set in the Middle Ages.
Materials:
- Story board or script
- Set, props, costumes
- Video equipment
Directions:
- Write an original script or adapt an existing story. The setting, characters, and language should fit medieval Europe.
- Pay attention to technical quality of sound, camera operation, and performance.
- If possible, consider titles, credits, music, special effects.
- Note: This is suitable for two partners. If three partners work together, make the video 15 minutes, if four partners, 20 minutes. Don't go over 20 minutes, however.
Dates & Deadlines
Dates Progress Checks Aug. 26 Project is introduced Aug. 31 1. Your choice, signed by parent Sept. 7 2. Your sketch of the project, signed by parent Sept. 14 3. List of materials already on hand, and those still needed, signed by parent Sept. 28 4. Statement of what is completed, and what still needs to be done, signed by parent Oct. 5 5. Project due date
Lost your handout? Download a word document of the progress checks
A B C D You follow directions completely, fulfilling all requirements.A B C D Your project is historically accurate, showing thorough research.
A B C D You show creativity with expression, materials, and design.
A B C D Your project shows effort, and is presented in excellent condition.
A B C D = YOUR GRADE
This Week in Core
Choices
Research here
Dates & Deadlines Grading Rubric Top of Page
