Second World War - Dunkirk

This lesson examines the Battle of Dunkirk and the dramatic evacuation of Allied forces in 1940. Students will learn about Operation Dynamo, the role of the ‘Little Boats,’ and the strategic and psychological impacts of the evacuation. Activities include creating a spider diagram, video analysis, group research, and writing a balanced argument on whether Dunkirk was a success or failure. The lesson concludes with a peer review of the written arguments.

Lesson Content and Activities:

Introduction:
Discuss the context of Dunkirk in 1940 and the significance of the evacuation.
Watch the trailer for the 2017 Dunkirk movie and create a spider diagram while watching.

Operation Dynamo:
In groups, collect information sheets on four key areas and summarize the most important details (focus on statistics and dates).

Churchill’s Initial Hopes:
Explain Churchill’s initial belief that only 30,000 troops could be rescued and his hopes for organizing a strategic retreat.

The Role of the ‘Little Boats’:
Discuss the involvement of 850 civilian vessels in the evacuation and their critical role in rescuing over 338,000 soldiers under heavy fire.

The Success of Operation Dynamo:
Review the results of Operation Dynamo, including the evacuation of approximately 338,000 Allied troops and its impact on Allied morale.

The Perimeter Defence:
Explain the fierce fighting and strategic decisions that allowed the Allies to create a perimeter and buy time for the evacuation.

Dunkirk: Success or Failure?
Read and analyze seven historical sources to determine if they depict Dunkirk as a success or failure.
Consider the provenance of each source and its reliability.

Writing Task:
Write an essay answering the question: “To what extent was Operation Dynamo a success?”
Use the PEEKA paragraph structure to present balanced arguments and a conclusion.

Class Discussion:
Share and discuss the essays.
Reflect on the strategic and psychological impacts of Dunkirk.

Resources:
Spider diagram template
Video links for Dunkirk trailers
Information sheets on Operation Dynamo
Historical sources for success or failure analysis
PEEKA paragraph guidelines

From a series of over 30 Second World War lessons made by Wolsey Academy. They provide a thorough foundation of knowledge in this vital period of 20th Century History and each lesson looks to focus on a range of historical skills and exam techniques to equip students with knowledge and transferable research, analysis and study skills.
To find the complete bundle search on the Wolsey Academy website.

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