Teaching American Conflicts in the 21st Century Classroom: WWII-Present

A guide to the curriculum from the National WWII Museum

Part One:

Focus: The War in Europe

The National WWII Museum has developed an engaging curriculum kit with lessons that explore the story of WWII through primary sources. While attending this interactive workshop, participants will dig into the lessons and resources provided in the kit as well as the online resources on the National WWII Museum website. Information about Operation Footlocker (actual museum artifacts that can be sent to your school) and future professional development opportunities will also be discussed.  At the conclusion of the workshop, attendees will receive a free “The War in Europe” Curriculum kit that can be easily integrated into your classroom.

Part Two:

Focus: The Korean War

Part Three:

Focus:American Conflicts since WWII

The AHS Heroes & Huskies Project partners local community members who are military veterans with students.

Introduction:

1. The War in Europe: “By the Numbers” activity and discussion

   1. Pick one of the statistics that sticks out to you.

   2. Share with your elbow partner the statistic and why.

   3. Sample sharing with whole group.

2. WWII Summer Institute Overview

Guiding Question:

How do we help students 7-12 engage in learning about WWII?

Activity:

1. The War in Europe: “Evaluating Historic Decisions”

   1. European Strategy Overview

   2. Scenario strips & responses

   3. Outcome strips

   4. Whole group discussion

Curriculum Kit Overview:

1. Introduction

2. Essays

3. Lesson Plans

Online Resources:

1. Teachers will create an account at ww2classroom.org

   1. Video alternate to previous activity

2. Microsites

Operation Footlocker

Discuss the availability of WWII artifacts through the National WWII Museum

Professional Development Opportunity

Team 3: The Homefront