Second World War - The Arabian Gulf

This lesson examines the strategic importance of the Arabian Gulf during World War II. Students will explore the reasons both the Allies and Axis powers wanted control of the Gulf, focusing on oil resources and overland routes to the USSR. Activities include analysing historical texts, completing fact sheets, and discussing the significance of key events such as the sinking of German submarine U-533. The lesson concludes with a writing task on the strategic impact of the Gulf.

Lesson Content and Activities:

Introduction:
Discuss the strategic importance of the Arabian Gulf during World War II.
Explain why both the Allies and Axis powers sought control over the region.

Oil and Overland Routes:
Discuss the significance of oil production and the need for safe passage for Lend-Lease supplies to the USSR.
Complete the ‘Arabian Gulf’ fact sheet by summarising key events in Iran and Iraq.

Historical Text Analysis:
Read the article on the fate of German submarine U-533 and answer related questions.
Discuss the impact of Allied codebreaking efforts and the role of RAF Squadron 244 based out of Sharjah.

Group Activity:
In groups, discuss and summarise the strategic moves and countermeasures taken by the Allies and Axis powers in the Arabian Gulf.

Writing Task:
Write an essay explaining the strategic importance of the Arabian Gulf during World War II.
Use the PEEKA paragraph structure to organise the arguments.

Class Discussion:
Share and discuss the essays.
Reflect on the broader implications of control over the Arabian Gulf during the war.

Resources:
Fact sheets on Iran and Iraq
Article on U-533
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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