Verdun: A Desolation of Trenches and the Scars of War

Descend into the harrowing reality of the Battle of Verdun, a grueling 10-month conflict that stands as a grim testament to the human cost of World War I. This captivating reading comprehension delves into the strategic motivations, the unimaginable conditions endured by soldiers, and the lasting impact of this battle on the course of history.

A Symbol of Sacrifice: Verdun's Strategic Significance

• A German Gambit: Explore the German objective of capturing Verdun, a key French fortress city, to cripple French morale and potentially knock France out of the war.
• French Tenacity: Understand the French determination to defend Verdun, recognizing its symbolic and strategic importance.

Living Hell: The Devastating Reality of Trench Warfare

• Attrition Warfare: Witness the brutal tactics employed by both sides, hurling waves of soldiers against each other in a relentless attempt to inflict heavy casualties.
• Unprecedented Carnage: Grasp the staggering number of casualties exceeding 700,000 soldiers on both sides.
• A Soldier's Perspective: Gain a firsthand account through a chilling excerpt from a French soldier, revealing the horrors witnessed and the psychological trauma endured.

Primary Source:

• Analyze a French soldier's account of the battle, offering a glimpse into the physical and mental anguish faced in the trenches.

Strengthen Critical Thinking Skills:

• Grapple with multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer questions.
• Utilize a comprehensive answer key for easy assessment.
• Align with essential Common Core State Standards.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the strategic reasoning behind the German attack on Verdun and the French resolve to defend it.
• Comprehend the horrific living conditions and psychological impact endured by soldiers trapped in the trenches.
• Evaluate the immense human cost of the Battle of Verdun and its lasting impact on the war's trajectory.
• Understand how this battle serves as a stark reminder of the brutality of trench warfare and the devastating consequences of war.

Common Core State Standards Addressed:

• RI.6.1, RI.7.1, RI.8.1, RI.9-10.1, RI.11-12.1: Close reading and analysis of informational text.
• RI.6.2, RI.7.2, RI.8.2, RI.9-10.2, RI.11-12.2: Determine central ideas and supporting details.
• RI.6.3, RI.7.3, RI.8.3, RI.9-10.3, RI.11-12.3: Analyze how and why events unfold.
• W.6.2, W.7.2, W.8.2, W.9-10.2, W.11-12.2: Write informative/explanatory texts clearly and accurately.

Content Summary:

This reading comprehension delves into the horrific realities of the Battle of Verdun, a turning point in WWI. Students will explore the strategic motivations, the unimaginable suffering endured by soldiers, and the lasting impact of this battle on the war's outcome and the world's perception of war itself.

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