Teaching Students About the Capital Of Europe the European Union

As educators, we have a responsibility to teach our students about the world around them, its cultures, people, and places. One of the most essential topics in this area is Europe – a continent rich with history, diversity, and landmarks that can never fail to awe us.

One critical aspect of learning about Europe is getting to know the capital of the continent- home to many institutions such as the European Union and the European Central Bank, Brussels. In this article, we will look at some strategies teachers can use to teach students about Brussels, Europe’s capital city.

Offering a Brief Introduction to Belgium

Before getting into the details about Brussels, it is essential to provide some background knowledge on Belgium, where the capital is located. Belgium, in Western Europe, has a population of 11.5 million people and three official languages (Dutch, French, and German). A brief introduction to the Belgian culture, language, food, and landmarks can give students a foundational context before diving into Brussels.

Explaining why Brussels is the Capital of Europe

To help students understand how Brussels came to be the capital of Europe, it is essential to take a historical approach. Educators can show the students how Europe originated after World War II, with European countries coming together to create economic cooperation. And how in 1957, six European countries signed the Treaty of Rome to create the European Economic Community (EEC).

Educators can also highlight the reasons why Brussels is the preferred location, one of which is its geographical proximity to other countries, making it a central hub. Brussels is also the location of the European Union’s capital, making it ideal for diplomatic missions, negotiations, and treaty signings.

Using Pictures and Videos

While it’s interesting to talk about Brussels being the capital of Europe, using visual aids such as pictures and videos can go a long way in keeping students engaged. Educators can capitalize on the vast collections of pictures and videos available online to help bring Brussels to life in the classroom.

Expose Students to the Landmarks and Attractions of Brussels

Brussels is home to notable landmarks that make it stand out to both locals and tourists alike. Some of the top attractions in Brussels include the Atomium, Manneken Pis, Grand Place, and the European Parliament. Educators can bring these landmarks to life by using Google Earth or other mapping tools, offering virtual tours of these places. Sharing videos and articles about these attractions is also another way to help students learn about these sites without leaving the classroom.

Finally, it is essential for educators to encourage their students to continue exploring and discovering about Brussels and Europe. They can provide resources like books, movies, documentaries, and even encourage students to get in touch with Belgians living in their community.

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