The Art of War

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Using Sun Tzu’s Military Strategy”

In this activity, students are challenged to resolve a problem using Sun Tzu’s military tactics.

Sun Tzu’s book is used in warfare, business, and political systems even today. Employ Sun Tzu’s Art of War to resolve an issue in the world or in your own experience. Then, present your strategy to your peers using a digital media format, such as PowerPoint. Use the questions below to guide your thinking:

• What personal, global, or local issue do you plan to resolve?
• How will you gain information on your “enemy” and your problem?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of yourself and your enemy?
• How will your “war” be costly?
• What considerations, such as weather (changeable conditions) and terrain (existing conditions, obstacles, and resources), should be acknowledged?
• Whom will you employ to help you, and how will you play into their strengths?
• How can you keep your “army” in good mental and physical health?

Teaching Suggestion: Students may or may not wish to use all discussion points in their PowerPoint presentation, depending on their chosen topic.