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Student Activities for First They Came
![First They Came Themes](http://cdn.storyboardthat.com/storyboard-cells/17779116/cell-row-0-col-0-w400.png "Theme in "First They Came"")
Essential Questions for "First They Came"
- What is this poem about?
- What are the themes of this poem?
- How does this poem make you feel?
- What are some ways the poem resonates today?
Martin Niemoller
Martin Niemoller was born in Germany in 1892. He was a cadet in the Navy during World War I, and after being discharged, he went to school to become a Lutheran pastor. Niemoller was a supporter of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party at first. However, when he realized that they were putting pressure on the churches, tapping his phone lines, and keeping a close eye on the Pastors Emergency League (which he helped create), he realized that they were a dictatorship that could not be trusted. Due to opposition of the Nazi’s state control of the churches, he was imprisoned and spent seven years in concentration camps. After the war, Niemoller spoke out openly and publicly about his guilt and the horrors of the Holocaust. He felt deep regret about not doing more to help the victims of the Nazis. He died in March of 1984, at the age of 92.
How Tos about
How can I guide students to analyze the themes of 'First They Came' using collaborative discussion?
Organize small groups to encourage students to share ideas and insights. Collaboration helps students build deeper understanding and empathy.
Prompt students to identify the poem’s central message.
Ask students to summarize the poem in their own words. This empowers them to connect personally with its meaning.
Encourage students to relate the poem’s themes to current events.
Invite students to discuss how the poem’s message applies to issues they see today. This fosters critical thinking and relevance.
Support respectful dialogue about difficult topics.
Set clear ground rules for discussion and model empathy. This creates a safe space for sharing thoughts and feelings.
Guide students to reflect on personal responsibility.
Encourage students to write or share how they can stand up for others. This step inspires action and moral growth.
Frequently Asked Questions about
What is the main message of 'First They Came' by Martin Niemoller?
The main message of 'First They Came' is a warning about the dangers of remaining silent in the face of injustice. Niemoller emphasizes that failing to speak up for others can eventually lead to harm for everyone, including ourselves.
How can I teach 'First They Came' in a way that engages my students?
To engage students with 'First They Came', use discussion prompts, connect the poem to current events, and explore its themes through activities like role-play or storyboarding. Encourage students to reflect on the importance of empathy and standing up for others.
What themes are explored in 'First They Came'?
'First They Came' explores themes of silence in the face of injustice, personal responsibility, guilt, and the impact of bystander behavior during times of persecution.
Who was Martin Niemoller and why did he write this poem?
Martin Niemoller was a German Lutheran pastor who opposed Nazi control over churches and was imprisoned in concentration camps. He wrote 'First They Came' to express his regret for not speaking out sooner and to warn others about the consequences of inaction.
Why does 'First They Came' still resonate with students today?
'First They Came' resonates today because it highlights the importance of standing up against injustice and encourages students to consider their role as allies. Its universal message about courage and empathy remains relevant in modern times.
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