Causes of WII Lesson

Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini in Munich, Germany
"Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini in Munich, Germany". National Archives and Records Administration, Item No. 540151. Public Domain. Source: https://catalog.archives.gov/id/540151

Learning objectives

In this lesson, students will delve into the political and historical events leading up to World War II, exploring both the long-term and short-term causes that set the stage for this global conflict. Through a detailed examination of the Treaty of Versailles, Hitler's military ambitions, and the policy of appeasement, learners will gain an understanding of the decisions and dynamics that culminated in the outbreak of the Second World War. Students will have the opportunity to achieve this through choosing their own method of learning, from reading, source analysis, research, and watching options, as well as the chance to engage in extension activities. This lesson includes a self-marking quiz for students to demonstrate their learning.

How would you like to learn?

Option 1: Reading


Step 1: Download the reading questions worksheet below:

Download
Causes of WWII Reading Questions.docx
Microsoft Word Document 22.5 KB

Step 2: Answer the questions while reading the webpage below:


Option 2: Using sources


Step 1: Download a copy of the source analysis worksheet below:

Download
Causes of WWII Source Analysis Worksheet
Microsoft Word Document 24.4 KB

Step 2: Answer the set questions by using the following sources:

How Britain Hoped To Avoid War With Germany In The 1930s. (n.d.). Imperial War Museums. https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/how-britain-hoped-to-avoid-war-with-germany-in-the-1930s

© IWM. (CC BY-NC 4.0)


Option 3: Internet research


Download a copy of the research worksheet and use the internet to complete the tables.

Download
Causes of WWII Research Worksheet.docx
Microsoft Word Document 23.4 KB

Option 4: Watch video


Step 1: Download a copy of the viewing questions worksheet:

Download
Causes of WWII Viewing Questions.docx
Microsoft Word Document 23.5 KB

Step 2: Answer the set questions by watching the documentary below:

Watch on YouTube


Test your learning



Extension activities



Resources for subscribers