World War Ii Battles and Leaders
What’s inside...
Dunkirk, Bataan, Midway-these are just some of the places soldiers lost their lives fighting to preserve freedom during World War II. The conflict that involved nations from all corners of the globe and brought down empires is a continuing source of fascination-and an important subject taught in social studies classes everywhere. Beginning with an overview of the causes of the war, and continuing with year-by-year looks at the major clashes and their results, the Battles and Leaders books are extensively illustrated with photographs, artifacts, paintings, maps, and charts to show the chronology of important moments in American and world history.
Age
10-17
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the leaders to make the decisions they did during World War II?
How do the battles described in the book show the challenges faced by the soldiers and their leaders?
If you could ask one of the leaders from the book a question, what would it be and why?
What can we learn from the mistakes and successes of the past as shown in this book?
How do you think the world would be different if some of these battles had different outcomes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, discuss what your child already knows about World War II to build a base for new knowledge.
After reading a chapter, ask your child how they felt about the events discussed, and relate them to the importance of leadership and decision-making.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them to consider what they might have done differently in a similar situation as the leaders in the book.
Connect the historical events from the book to current events to help your child see the relevance of history in today's world.
Foster empathy by discussing the human impact of the battles, such as how families and individuals might have been affected during those times.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of leadership
Explanation: This book highlights the significant impact leaders have during turbulent times, showcasing figures from World War II who made critical decisions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of good decision-making and taking initiative in leadership roles at school or in group activities.
Example Lesson: The consequences of conflict
Explanation: Through detailed accounts of various battles, the book conveys the heavy costs and consequences of war, emphasizing the value of peace.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to resolve conflicts amicably and appreciate peaceful negotiations over aggressive confrontations.
Example Lesson: The strength of resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Stories of perseverance by soldiers and civilians alike demonstrate how resilience can overcome even the harshest circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to persist in the face of challenges, whether in completing difficult tasks or dealing with personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: The book illustrates how Allied forces collaborated despite differences, highlighting the importance of teamwork in achieving common goals.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of working together and supporting each other in team projects or sports.