Core Skills Analysis
History
- The 12-year-old student learned about the causes of The Great Depression, including the stock market crash of 1929 and the impact of bank failures.
- They gained an understanding of the socio-economic effects of the Great Depression, such as unemployment, poverty, and the Dust Bowl.
- The student learned about the government's response to the Great Depression, including programs like the New Deal and their impact on society.
- Through the activity, they developed knowledge about key historical figures of the Great Depression era, such as Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Tips
For continued development after the activity on The Great Depression, students can explore primary sources such as photographs, letters, and newspaper articles from that time period to deepen their understanding. Encourage them to compare and contrast the effects of the Great Depression with current economic situations to foster critical thinking skills. Additionally, organizing a mock debate or creating a timeline of events can enhance their comprehension and engagement with the topic.
Book Recommendations
- Riding the Rails: Teenagers on the Move During the Great Depression by Errol Lincoln Uys: Follow the journeys of teenagers who hopped freight trains in search of work and adventure during the Great Depression.
- Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis: Join 10-year-old Bud as he navigates the challenges of the Great Depression in search of family and belonging.
- Children of the Great Depression by Russell Freedman: Explore the lives of children who grew up during the Great Depression, facing hardships with resilience and hope.