The Things They Carried Field Trip

The Things They Carried: A Field Trip into the Heart of War

Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried isn't your typical war novel. It's a visceral, emotionally raw exploration of the Vietnam War, told through interwoven stories of soldiers grappling with the physical and psychological burdens of combat. A field trip centered around this book necessitates moving beyond simple plot summaries and delving into the novel's complex themes, forcing students to confront uncomfortable truths about war, trauma, and the enduring power of storytelling. This article will explore how to design a compelling and impactful field trip experience around The Things They Carried, focusing on activities that foster critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the text.

Preparing for the Field Trip: Laying the Groundwork

Before embarking on a field trip centered around The Things They Carried, thorough preparation is essential. The success of the experience depends on adequately equipping students with the necessary background knowledge and analytical skills.

Pre-Reading Activities: Setting the Stage

Pre-reading activities are crucial for setting the context. These activities should aim to:

• Introduce the Vietnam War: Students should have a basic understanding of the historical context, including the political climate, US involvement, and the anti-war movement. Discussions, documentaries, or historical articles can provide the necessary background.
• Explore the concept of "truth" in storytelling: The Things They Carried blurs the lines between fact and fiction. Discuss the nature of memory, trauma, and the ways in which stories shape our understanding of events. Introduce the concept of metafiction – a story that comments on the act of storytelling itself.
• Introduce key themes: Highlight central themes such as the psychological impact of war, the burden of guilt and responsibility, the nature of courage and fear, and the complexities of morality in wartime.

Essential Reading Materials & Resources

While The Things They Carried itself is the central text, supplementing it with additional resources enhances the learning experience. Consider:

• Historical Photographs and Documents: Visual materials from the Vietnam War can powerfully complement the narrative. These can evoke a stronger emotional response and provide a tangible link to the historical context.
• Interviews with Vietnam Veterans: If possible, arranging a meeting or virtual interaction with veterans can provide invaluable firsthand accounts and perspectives. Hearing personal stories adds a human dimension that deeply impacts student understanding.
• Critical Essays and Analyses: Exposing students to diverse critical interpretations of the novel expands their analytical skills and encourages critical engagement with the text.

Designing the Field Trip: Experiential Learning

The field trip itself should go beyond a simple classroom setting. Consider these options:

Option 1: The Vietnam Veterans Memorial

If feasible, a visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., offers a powerful and moving experience. Students can explore the names inscribed on the wall, reflecting on the human cost of war. The visit should be structured to encourage respectful reflection and thoughtful discussion, not just passive observation. Prepare students beforehand by exploring the history of the memorial and the symbolism associated with its design.

Option 2: Immersive Museum Experience

Many museums offer immersive exhibits related to the Vietnam War. These provide a visually engaging and interactive way to learn about the conflict, offering a multi-sensory experience that enhances understanding. Encourage students to actively engage with the exhibits and to note specific artifacts or displays that resonate with the themes in O'Brien's novel.

Option 3: Creating a "Memory Landscape"

Even without access to a physical location, a powerful learning experience can be created within the school. Students can collaboratively create a "memory landscape" – a physical representation of the emotional and psychological weight carried by the soldiers in the novel. This could be a visual art project, a sound installation, or a written piece incorporating evocative language. This participatory activity promotes creative expression and deepens engagement with the book’s emotional core.

Post-Field Trip Activities: Reflection and Analysis

The field trip is not the end of the learning process; rather, it’s a catalyst for further exploration and reflection. Post-trip activities should focus on:

Journaling and Reflection Prompts:

Encourage students to journal their experiences, focusing on specific moments that resonated with them. Prompts could include:

• What was the most impactful part of your experience? Why?
• How did your understanding of The Things They Carried change as a result of the field trip?
• What connections did you make between the novel and the real-world experiences you encountered?
• How does the field trip experience influence your understanding of the lasting impact of war?

Class Discussions and Debates:

Facilitate thoughtful discussions centered around the themes explored in the novel and reinforced by the field trip. These discussions should encourage critical thinking and diverse perspectives. Consider framing debates around:

• The ethics of war and the moral complexities faced by soldiers.
• The role of storytelling in understanding and processing trauma.
• The lasting impact of war on individuals, communities, and nations.

Creative Writing Assignments:

Challenge students to explore the themes of the novel through creative writing assignments. This could take the form of:

• Short stories: Students can write their own short stories inspired by the themes and experiences depicted in The Things They Carried.
• Poems: Encourage the use of evocative imagery and language to express emotions associated with war and trauma.
• Dramatic scenes: Students can create and perform short scenes that explore character interactions or significant events from the novel.

Assessing Student Learning: Beyond Traditional Tests

Assessment should move beyond simple memorization and focus on deeper understanding and critical thinking. Consider these assessment strategies:

• Reflective Essays: Assess students' ability to synthesize their learning from the novel, the field trip, and post-trip activities.
• Presentation and Discussions: Evaluate students' comprehension and ability to articulate their understanding in group settings.
• Creative Projects: Assess the creativity and depth of students' engagement with the themes through their creative work.

Conclusion: A Transformative Learning Experience

A field trip centered around The Things They Carried presents a unique opportunity for transformative learning. By carefully designing the pre-trip preparations, the field trip itself, and the post-trip activities, educators can create an impactful experience that moves students beyond simple comprehension and fosters deeper understanding of the novel's complex themes. This holistic approach emphasizes critical thinking, empathy, and a nuanced understanding of the lasting effects of war, leaving a lasting impact on students' understanding of literature, history, and the human condition. The goal is not just to teach about a book, but to facilitate a powerful and lasting engagement with the enduring relevance of its messages.