1970s – End of the Cold War unit contains 7 learning experiences.
Learning Experiences (Lessons) in 1970s – End of the Cold War Each learning experience takes about 45 minutes to teach in the device-enabled classroom.
The Politics of Energy and the Middle East
Students watch a video containing primary-source footage on the Iran hostage crisis. Then, they examine major turning points in U.S. Middle East policy, including the hostage crisis, the 1973 oil embargo, the 1978 Camp David peace accords, and the 1982 suicide attacks on U.S. Marines in Lebanon. Finally, students analyze U.S. foreign oil dependency and its implications.
Ronald Reagan’s Presidency
Students watch a video that introduces Ronald Reagan as the “Great Communicator.” Then they explore his record in domestic policy, focusing on Reaganomics, and his foreign policies. Next, they evaluate the Reagan presidency. Finally, students turn to Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the Reagan appointee as the first woman on the U.S. Supreme Court.
Shifting Demographics
Students respond to photos of Sun Belt and Rust Belt cities. Then, they study the facts of population shifts from the Rust Belt to the Sun Belt. Next, they examine changing immigration trends in relation to those demographic shifts. Finally, they explore current demographic trends and make predictions.
The International Dominance of American Culture
Students consider the role of American culture in society by watching a video of a jazz performance that displays traits of American popular culture. Then, they examine and report on the influence of American culture in eight specific fields. Next, they explore and evaluate why American culture is so popular. Finally, they reflect on how cultural diffusion is a complex phenomenon.
End of the Cold War
Students watch a primary-source ABC newscast from West Germany on the day of the fall of the Berlin Wall. Then, they learn the facts of the fall of the Soviet system. Next, they explore the causes and effects of the downfall of the communist system and write from the point-of-view of a citizen living in Russia during this time.
