Absolutism and Monarchs

Overview

This 60-minute lesson introduces Grade 7 students to the concept of absolutism and its significance in world history. Using primary sources, group discussion, and a short quiz, students will explore key monarchs like Louis XIV and Peter the Great, analyze the impact of absolutism on government and society, and develop critical thinking skills aligned with the Common Core State Standards.

Common Core State Standards Alignment

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.1
Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.2
Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of the source distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.7.1
Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions on grade-appropriate topics, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.9
Compare and contrast treatments of the same topic in several primary and secondary sources.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

Define absolutism and explain its main characteristics.
Identify and describe notable absolute monarchs like Louis XIV and Peter the Great.
Analyze the effects of absolutism on government structure and society in Europe.
Use primary sources to support their understanding of historical perspectives.
Engage in collaborative discussions and clearly articulate their analyses.

Materials and Resources

Printed excerpts from primary sources (e.g., Louis XIV's "I am the state" quote, Peter the Great’s reforms description)
Chart paper or whiteboard and markers
Handouts with brief biographies and key facts about Louis XIV and Peter the Great
Quiz sheets with multiple-choice and short answer questions
Projector or smartboard (optional for visuals)

Lesson Procedures

1. Introduction and Hook (10 minutes)

Begin by asking students: "What do you think it means when one person has all the power in a country?"
Write keywords on the board (power, control, king, queen, government).
Introduce the term absolutism: the political belief that one ruler holds all the power and authority in a state.
Explain briefly why it was popular in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries.

2. Direct Instruction: Key Concepts and Monarchs (15 minutes)

Present key facts about absolutism: centralized power, divine right of kings, control over law, taxes, and military.
Introduce Louis XIV ("The Sun King") of France, highlighting his famous quote "L'État, c'est moi" ("I am the state"), his palace at Versailles, and his control over nobles.
Introduce Peter the Great of Russia, focusing on his modernization efforts and westernization policies.
Use a compare and contrast chart on the board listing similarities and differences between Louis XIV and Peter the Great’s approaches to absolutism.

3. Primary Source Analysis (15 minutes)

Distribute excerpts of primary sources: Louis XIV’s statement and a description of Peter the Great’s reforms.
In groups of 4-5, students read and discuss the sources using guided questions:
- What is the monarch trying to communicate?
- What does this tell us about their view of power?
- How might common people be affected by this ruler’s policies?
Groups share key points; teacher records findings on the board under categories: Power, Society, Government.

4. Group Discussion and Reflection (10 minutes)

Using information from the primary sources and notes, lead a class discussion:
- What are the positive and negative impacts of absolutism?
- Why do you think people supported or opposed absolute monarchs?
- Can any modern governments have similarities?
Encourage students to build on each other's ideas and cite the primary sources during discussion.

5. Assessment: Short Quiz (8 minutes)

Hand out a quick quiz (5-7 questions) including:
- Define absolutism in your own words.
- Name one absolute monarch and one key fact about him.
- Choose true or false: Louis XIV built the Palace of Versailles to demonstrate his power.
- Short answer: Explain one way Peter the Great changed Russia.
Collect quizzes for teacher evaluation.

6. Closing and Homework (2 minutes)

Summarize key takeaways about absolutism and monarchs.
For homework, ask students to write a paragraph answering:
- If you were alive during the age of absolutism, would you support or oppose an absolute monarch? Explain why.

Assessment Methods

Observation of group discussion participation aligned with CCSS.SL.7.1
Review of primary source analysis responses for understanding and use of evidence (CCSS.RH.6-8.1; RH.6-8.2)
Quiz answering demonstrating knowledge of key facts and concepts (formative assessment)

Extensions and Differentiation

For advanced learners: Analyze an additional primary source, such as an edict from Louis XIV or a letter from a noble.
For students needing support: Provide a glossary of key terms and simplified excerpts. Partner them with peers during group activities.

This lesson plan offers a balanced approach of direct instruction, inquiry, and collaborative learning, meeting Common Core standards and engaging Grade 7 students with meaningful historical inquiry.

Teaching Instructions