News

When students learn about the increasing persecution German - and later Austrian - Jews faced between 1933 and 1941, they often ask, "Why didn't the German and Austrian Jews just leave?" The answer to that question is complex and allows an excellent opportunity for students to investigate and think critically about the emigration of German and Austrian Jews before and during the early years of WWII. This lesson is intended to guide students through that investigation and critical thinking process. This lesson concludes with a written defense or Socratic Seminar on the contrapositive of the original question:Given the obstacles, how…

Created by Laura Patton, January 2025.Midwest Center for Holocaust Education Grade Level6th-8th grade SubjectSocial StudiesLanguage Arts/Reading Time Needed2 class period(s) IntroductionIn this lesson, learners will compare and contrast the characteristics of long-standing and popular American youth organizations - 4-H, Scouting America, Girl Scouts, and FFA - with the characteristics of the Hitler Youth. Learners will have an opportunity to read, write, discuss, think critically, and form conclusions about the purpose and value of these organizations and the positive or negative effects they have on young people. This lesson was developed in cooperation with Lynette Wescott, a 6th grade teacher in…

Are you a student looking for an interesting book to read or film to watch about the Holocaust? Are you a parent or homeschool learning coach who would like to guide a young person toward resources about this period of history? Are you a teacher or curriculum developer looking for Holocaust books and films to use as a vehicle for teaching history or language arts standards? MCHE can help! The annotated list linked below contains suggestions for people who want to learn about the Holocaust. We think you will find books and films on the list that will both educate…