Causes & Course of World War II
Students examine the failures of appeasement, the rise of aggressive expansionism, and key events of WWII in Europe and Asia.
Key Questions
- Analyze the failures of appeasement in preventing WWII.
- Explain the key ideological differences between the Axis and Allied powers.
- Compare the strategies and turning points of the war in the European and Pacific theaters.
Ontario Curriculum Expectations
About This Topic
This topic explores the global struggles for equality and social justice in the 20th century, focusing on the US Civil Rights movement, the Anti-Apartheid movement in South Africa, and the rise of second-wave feminism. Students examine the strategies used by grassroots movements, including non-violent protest, legal challenges, and international pressure, to change national laws and social norms. The curriculum emphasizes the role of global solidarity in the success of these movements.
Grade 12 students analyze the impact of these movements on international human rights law and their legacy for contemporary social justice struggles. They investigate how different movements learned from and supported each other across borders. This topic comes alive when students can participate in a 'Social Movement Strategy Session,' where they must design a campaign to address a specific inequality, choosing the most effective tools for mobilization and advocacy.
Active Learning Ideas
Simulation Game: The Anti-Apartheid Campaign
Students represent different groups (the ANC, the South African government, the UN, and international corporations). They must negotiate the use of economic sanctions and sporting boycotts to pressure the government to end Apartheid.
Inquiry Circle: The Global Reach of Civil Rights
Small groups research how the US Civil Rights movement influenced social movements in other countries (e.g., the Northern Ireland civil rights movement or Indigenous rights in Australia). They create a 'Solidarity Map' showing these connections.
Think-Pair-Share: Non-Violence vs. Militancy
Students read about the different approaches of leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. They discuss with a partner which strategies were more effective in the short and long term, and whether the two approaches were complementary or contradictory.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionSocial movements are led by a single 'heroic' leader.
What to Teach Instead
While leaders are important, social movements are built on the work of thousands of ordinary people and grassroots organizations. A 'Movement Ecosystem' activity can help students see the diverse roles and groups involved in a successful campaign.
Common MisconceptionOnce a law is changed, the social movement's goals are achieved.
What to Teach Instead
Legal change is often just the first step; changing social attitudes and addressing systemic inequality can take much longer. Analyzing the 'Post-Movement' challenges of the Civil Rights era can help students see the ongoing nature of social justice work.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was the 'Montgomery Bus Boycott'?
How did international pressure help end Apartheid?
What is 'Intersectionality' and why is it important for social movements?
How can active learning help students understand social movements?
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