Issues of World War II: Weaponry


US History (11th) The United States and World War II Issues of World War II: Weaponry
Students view a photo of a mushroom cloud and explain their response to the photo. Then, they explore an overview of World War II conventional weapons and technological innovations that arose from military needs. Next they study the development and first use of nuclear weapons against Japan. Finally, students learn about the Native American code talkers of World War II who used their native languages as the basis of codes for secret communications.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Here are the teacher pack items for Issues of World War II: Weaponry:

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Overview

In this experience, students view a photo of a mushroom cloud and explain their response to the photo. Then, they explore an overview of World War II conventional weapons and technological innovations that arose from military needs. Next they study the development and first use of nuclear weapons against Japan. Finally, students learn about the Native American code talkers of World War II who used their native languages as the basis of codes for secret communications.

Objectives

  • Describe new conventional weapons and technological innovations for the military.
  • Analyze the impact of the atomic bomb.
  • Explain the importance of codes.


World War II far exceeded World War I in the number of lives lost, in part because a generation of technological progress had made weapons much more powerful. In this experience, you’ll learn about advances and inventions in weaponry used in World War II.

Objectives

  • Describe new conventional weapons and technological innovations for the military.
  • Analyze the impact of the atomic bomb.
  • Explain the importance of codes. 


Look at the photo. What is shown? Write a caption describing the photo and identifying its subject. If you don’t know, use your imagination.


A sample correct caption: “Mushroom cloud of the atomic bombing of the city of Nagasaki, Japan, Aug. 9, 1945.”

All student responses are acceptable, since the purpose is to learn the information, not to get credit for prior knowledge. Tell students that Nagasaki was the second Japanese city destroyed by an atomic bomb. Hiroshima was first, on Aug. 6.

The mushroom cloud at Nagasaki rose 11 mi (18 km) above the ground. Photographer Charles Levy was aboard one of the B-29 Superfortress bombers used in the attack.


Photos of mushroom clouds have become a part of modern culture since World War II.


Knowing what the photo shows, what do you think or feel when you look at it?

Post your answer

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

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The Complete List of Learning Experiences in World War II Unit.
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