Each morning last week at Seneca Middle School, students had an opportunity to work in small groups as they were introduced to the tragic events of the Holocaust during World War II. It was part of an interdisciplinary unit for eighth graders throughout the week.
“By studying the Holocaust, students will gain an understanding of the roots and ramifications of prejudice, racism, and stereotyping in any society,” said Seneca Principal Gemma Salvia.
Students completed a series of activities where they learned about key aspects of the Holocaust to gain well-balanced knowledge of this event.
By combining Social Studies with ELA, students not only learned about the historical events associated with Adolf Hitler, Nazi Germany, and the Holocaust, but had the opportunity to read survivor testimonies, write personal responses, meet and interview a survivor, and identify examples of similar injustices in society today.
The program culminated Friday with an assembly program where students had an opportunity to hear first hand accounts from a Holocaust survivor, Irving Roth.
The lesson plan was created by Seneca social studies teacher Randy LaBella and English teacher Jennifer Staehle.