Lesson Plan

Continuity or Change? African Americans in World War II

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

While World War II was a pivotal moment in history, historians debate its importance to the civil rights movement. Class members consider the implications of segregation and the war using a series of documents and a jigsaw activity. Documents include photographs, political cartoons, and documents related to the war and civil rights demonstrations.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Instructional Ideas
  • Have learners write letters to the editor to defend their positions on the role of World War II in the civil rights movement
Classroom Considerations
  • Pupils need background in World War II and segregation
  • Some documents use racially insensitive language
Pros
  • Mix of visual and written resources makes the lesson easy to adapt to different learning styles
  • Worksheets allow for simple scaffolding
Cons
  • Resource does not mention important concepts such as redlining and discrimination within GI Bill benefits