Unveiling the Motives Behind 9/11: A Critical Thinking Exercise

Go beyond memorization and delve into the complex motivations that fueled the horrific events of 9/11! This engaging reading comprehension worksheet uses informative text, a primary source excerpt, and thought-provoking questions to guide students in understanding the root causes of terrorism. Through critical analysis, students will explore the grievances of the attackers and the factors that shaped their ideology.

What's Included:

• An informative text that unpacks the formation and motivations of Al-Qaeda.
• A primary source excerpt from Osama bin Laden's public statement, providing a glimpse into the attackers' perspective.
• High-interest questions that encourage analysis, discussion, and empathy (without justifying violence).
• A variety of assessment formats (multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, short answer) to solidify comprehension.
• A detailed answer key for efficient grading.

Learning Objectives:

• Students will be able to identify the group responsible for the 9/11 attacks and its leader.
• Students will be able to analyze the complex motivations behind the attacks, including geopolitical tensions, religious extremism, and economic disparity.
• Students will be able to understand the importance of examining root causes in addressing global issues.
• Students will be able to develop critical thinking skills by evaluating information and forming reasoned arguments.

Common Core Standards Addressed:

• RI.6.1: Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
• RI.7.1: Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
• RI.7.3: Analyze in detail the sequences of events or ideas described in a text.
• RI.8.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

Why Buy This Resource?

• Critical Thinking Focus: Moves beyond basic comprehension, encouraging students to analyze motivations and consider complex issues.
• Primary Source Integration: Provides a real-world perspective from Osama bin Laden's statement, fostering deeper understanding.
• Multiple Assessment Options: Caters to diverse learning styles with a variety of question formats.
• Standards-Aligned: Meets key Common Core reading comprehension standards for middle grades.

Ready to unlock your students' critical thinking potential? Explore my store for a treasure trove of reading comprehensions that tackle diverse themes and inspire insightful discussions. From historical mysteries to scientific explorations, there's something for every classroom!

Support a fellow educator and get rewarded! Purchase this resource, leave a review, and earn TeachShare credits you can use on any product on the platform. Your feedback helps others and benefits you too!

Related Product

Post 9/11 America Reading Bundle

• Dive deeper into the complexities of post-9/11 America with this 8-part reading comprehension bundle exploring security, immigration, war on terror, and more!