Second World War - Resistance Movements

This lesson examines the resistance movements in Nazi-occupied Europe from 1938 to 1945. Students will explore different forms of resistance, from passive defiance to active combat, through case studies of notable resistance efforts. Activities include analysing primary sources, creating infographics, and discussing the motivations and impacts of resistance. The lesson concludes with a writing task reflecting on how individuals resisted Nazi occupation and a peer assessment of the infographics.

Lesson Content and Activities:

Introduction:
Discuss the extent of Nazi occupation in Europe and the concept of resistance.
Consider how individuals might respond to occupation, categorising responses as collaboration, passive, or active resistance.

Types of Response:
Match keywords to definitions of different types of resistance.
Read statements and categorise them as collaboration, passive resistance, or active resistance.

Case Studies:
Study four significant resistance efforts: Simone Segouin, The Comet Line, Warsaw Uprising, and the Ukrainian Insurgent Army.
Answer questions on each case study to understand their objectives, methods, and impacts.

Resistance Infographic Projects:
Conduct research on famous resistance movements, events, or individuals in Nazi-occupied Europe.
Create a one-page infographic that includes engaging visuals, concise information, logical structure, and consistent design.

Peer Assessment:
Grade infographics based on structured layout, visual elements, and minimal text.
Use a scoring system out of 9 for peer assessment.

How Would You React?
Discuss how students might respond to a Nazi invasion, considering factors that could influence their decisions.

Writing Task:
Write an essay reflecting on how individuals resisted Nazi occupation using the PEEKA paragraph structure.
Plan and organise thoughts using the PEEKA grid and guidance sheet.

Class Discussion:
Share and discuss essays.
Reflect on the various forms of resistance and their significance in the broader context of World War II.

Resources:
Primary sources and case study information
Infographic creation tools and guidelines
PEEKA paragraph guidelines and planning sheet