The ‘Hot to the Cold War’ lesson involves having students examine important events as they chronologically unfold from the onset of the Cold War to China becoming a communist country. This comprehensive 56 Slide Presentation is full of primary sources, embedded with engaging sound effects, music, and video clips that will provide students with a critical context from which to see how the U.S and the Soviet Union’s alliance’ during WWII evolved into one of rivalries. Problem solving, debate, and higher analytical skills are fostered throughout the presentation. A supplementary, hands-on debate activity takes place at the conclusion of the lesson in which students jump forward in time and analyze the controversial issue of the manufacturing and weapons sales that takes place today.

Materials:

• One 56 Google Slide Presentation
• Teacher Reference Guide
• Printable Handouts:
• Handout #1- Guided Notes
• Handout #2- 'Arms for the Poor' Film Discussion Guide
• Handout #3- Role Play/Debate Activity

If you liked this lesson see other related ‘Cold War’ lessons here:

• Cold War Unit Review & Assessment
• The Cuban Missile Crisis Declassified
• The Korean War: A Critical Reading Activity
• The Cold War and Vietnam