Introduction

This lesson was developed as part of the Supporting Learning with Technology course at Pacific University.

This lesson is about the Nazi Propaganda used during WWII and the Holocaust.

Learners

This lesson was created for 6th graders as part of a social studies unit on the Holocaust. Considering the content of teh Holocaust, I would not suggest using this webquest for children any younger than 6th grade. 

Learners will need to have a basic understanding of the Holocaust, an ability to think critically and anaylze documents for biases.

Curriculum Standards

Students will gain a basic understanding of propaganda and it's use, specifically Nazi Propaganda. 

Social Studies Standards Addressed

• Understand citizen rights in context of history taught and current events.
• Identify and interpret primary and secondary source documents to increase understanding.

Students should be encouraged to use critical thinking throughout this assignment.

Process

1. First, you will begin by defining the words propaganda and censorship.
2. Second, you will research the use of Nazi Propaganda.
3. Third, you will explore a theme of your choice by clicking on at least one of the photos.
   
4. Next, you will examine actual artifacts of Nazi Propaganda. In doing so you are invited to explore a variety of formats, themes and years of propaganda.
5. Here, watch a video of Hitler speaking a piece of Nazi Propaganda to the German people.
   
6. Now, read about the danger of propaganda under Monitoring the Media.
7. Lastly, be sure you have recorded not only your findings, but your opinions, thoughts, feelings and any additional questions you may have into your notebook.

This lesson can be taught quickly in one class period or over the course of two class periods to allow a deeper understanding to be created. 

Teachers need to use this lesson as part of a strong unit about the Holocaust. 

Variations

Content: Some students might be sensitive to the content, for that reason it is important to know your students and their maturity levels.

Process: Some students may need to use a "text to speech" program to have the script read to them instead of reading it themselves.

Product: Some students may prefer to type their findings, versus writing them in a notebook. Additionally, some students may prefer more creative ways of showing their learning.

Environment: I believe it is important to have a well-lit room to do this lesson, as the material can be quite heavy.

Resources Needed

Evaluation

Conclusion

By completeing this webquest as a historian you will have learned about Nazi Propaganda and Censorship and its affect on the Holocaust.

The importance of this lesson is tied to the importance of teaching the Holocaust. You can find a well-written rationale from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum here.

Credits & References