World War 2. How it started and who were our allies

History

• The student has learned about the causes and events leading to the start of World War 2, such as the Treaty of Versailles, the rise of dictatorships, and the invasion of Poland.
• They have also gained an understanding of the alliances formed during World War 2, including the Axis powers and the Allies.
• The student has learned about the impact of World War 2 on different countries and regions, including the role of major powers such as the United States, the Soviet Union, and Great Britain.

Social Studies

• The activity has provided the student with an understanding of the geopolitical dynamics during World War 2, including the shifting alliances and conflicts between different nations.
• They have also gained insight into the social and economic effects of the war on various societies, including the experiences of civilians and the impact on daily life during the conflict.

Continued development related to the activity can involve inviting students to participate in role-playing exercises, where they take on the perspectives of different leaders and countries involved in World War 2. This can help them understand the complexities of diplomacy, decision-making, and the human impact of war.

Book Recommendations

• All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr: A Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that follows the lives of a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide during World War 2, offering a poignant portrayal of the war's impact on individuals.
• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak: This powerful and moving novel tells the story of a young girl living in Nazi Germany, whose love for books helps her to endure the hardships of war and provides an intimate look at life during World War 2.
• Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein: A gripping historical fiction novel centered on female pilots and spies during World War 2, exploring themes of friendship, courage, and sacrifice in the face of the conflict.