Application of Content

Teachers should implement various cultures and perspectives into their class content, which provides students with critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills. This standard is important as teachers can include a wide variety of backgrounds, diversities, and people in their lessons. Students will feel represented and included, which increases their desire to learn. Historical issues and topics will also be discussed through creative means such as writing historical perspective letters, participating in wartime debates, and creating history in action videos. This allows learners to have dynamic and interactive activities while helping students to better understand and engage with the lessons.

Students will craft three historical perspective letters related to World War II. These letters will be from the following people: a mother in America on the Homefront who has a son fighting overseas, a Russian soldier being deployed, and lastly as the Kaiser of Germany. Students will incorporate one quote from a primary source in their letters for each perspective. Additionally, one picture should be included for each. The letters may be typed in a Word Document or handwritten. This will allow for various cultures and perspectives to be analyzed in class.

Lastly, students will hold a class  wartime debate on early 20th century American vs. German stances on war. Students will break into small groups and research for thirty minutes and then decide their stance and opinion. At least two quotes for evidence must be included. Through the debate, students will be able to greatly improve their critical thinking and communication skills. The guidelines are listed here.