Analysis

The aim of this task is for you to demonstrate your understanding of the assigned historical case study ( GUADALCANAL campaigns ) and your ability to conduct a critical Operational CoG ( CENTER OF GRAVITY ) analysis and 3 Column Format (3CF) factor analysis as described in AJP5. You will do this by delivering a ten minute brief supported by Powerpoint,. using historical analysis to think about questions of strategy, command, and operational art. It also provides you with the opportunity to analyse and consider the operational level as a conceptual tool that may, or may not, provide the best framework for the conduct of campaigns. This task seeks to develop your ability to analyse an operation with which, prior to the module, you may have had no familiarity. It puts you in the position of having to analyse primary and secondary source material from the operation to provide a CoG analysis as though you were a staff officer within the historical case study. In preparation for this brief, you are to produce a 1500-word written note that provides background information and the key points of your brief. The purpose of the task is to challenge you with a scenario-based assessment that tests your understanding of a key doctrinal concept (Centre of Gravity) by applying it to the historical case study ( GUADALCANAL campaigns ). The assessors will therefore be examining your ability to construct a coherent, well-structured, well-evidenced brief that can articulate your understanding of the Centre of Gravity . The verbal brief should not seek to simply reiterate what is stated on the written note; it should seek to add further value to the latter. Conclusion : Its a two-part test (written and verbal = PowerPoint ) Here is the breakdown of what they are actually asking you to do: 1. The Written Part: 1500 Words maximum , but 1400 words are Perfect This isn’t just an essay; its a formal technical report. You are being graded on your ability to use two specific “filters” to look at a historical event: Stranges CoG Matrix: You need to identify the Center of Gravity (CoG)the primary source of moral or physical strength for the warring sides. Using Dr. Joe Stranges model, you’ll break this down into: Critical Capabilities: What the CoG can do. Critical Requirements: What the CoG needs to stay effective. Critical Vulnerabilities: The “Achilles’ heel” where they can be defeated. The 3 Column Format: This is a classic military method for analyzing “Factors.” Factor: (e.g., The enemy has more tanks). Deduction: (e.g., They will likely attack over open ground). Output/Task: (e.g., We must position anti-tank units at Point X). 2. The Verbal Part: PowerPoint You have to stand in front of your instructors and defend your paper. They don’t just want the answer; they want to see your “logic chain.”