Activity Overview
As it's name suggests, fighting in World War II took place across the globe. In this activity, students will research one of the three major theaters of war from World War II: Pacific, European, or North African. Students will create a spider map storyboard that represents the climate/weather of the theater, the countries that fought in that theater, and style of warfare that was used in the theater. For each cell, students will include a visual representation of their point of emphasis and include a description of each.
Extended Activity
In this extended activity, students will create a storyboard that represents a specific battle or event that took place in the World War II theater that they researched. Students can include primary source descriptions of the conflict or summarize the research that they found. Depending on the discretion of the teachers, students can create the storyboard using the characters and scenes available or use actual images from the battle or event.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a spider map examining one of the theaters of war during World War II.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the center of the spider map, identify the theater of war you have chosen.
- In the cells, ask and answer the following: Climate/Weather, Countries Involved, and Style of Warfare.
- Create an illustration for each using appropriate scenes, characters, items, or photos from Photos for Class.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
As it's name suggests, fighting in World War II took place across the globe. In this activity, students will research one of the three major theaters of war from World War II: Pacific, European, or North African. Students will create a spider map storyboard that represents the climate/weather of the theater, the countries that fought in that theater, and style of warfare that was used in the theater. For each cell, students will include a visual representation of their point of emphasis and include a description of each.
Extended Activity
In this extended activity, students will create a storyboard that represents a specific battle or event that took place in the World War II theater that they researched. Students can include primary source descriptions of the conflict or summarize the research that they found. Depending on the discretion of the teachers, students can create the storyboard using the characters and scenes available or use actual images from the battle or event.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a spider map examining one of the theaters of war during World War II.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the center of the spider map, identify the theater of war you have chosen.
- In the cells, ask and answer the following: Climate/Weather, Countries Involved, and Style of Warfare.
- Create an illustration for each using appropriate scenes, characters, items, or photos from Photos for Class.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Theatres of World War II
Engage students with a hands-on World War II artifact analysis
Hook your class by introducing real or replica artifacts from World War II, such as ration books, propaganda posters, or soldier letters. Artifacts make history tangible and spark curiosity about the people and stories behind them.
Set up artifact analysis stations around your classroom
Create multiple stations with a different artifact or artifact image at each. Allow small groups to rotate and spend time examining each item up close, noting their observations and questions.
Guide students to observe and infer details about each artifact
Prompt students to look closely at physical details, symbols, and text. Encourage them to ask: Who might have used this? What does it tell us about life during the war? Support critical thinking and connection-making.
Facilitate group discussion to share findings and insights
Bring the class together to discuss observations. Have groups share surprises, questions, and personal reactions to deepen understanding of the World War II era from multiple perspectives.
Connect artifact analysis to broader World War II themes
Link discoveries from the artifacts to the larger context of World War II theaters, daily life, and historical impact. Reinforce how primary sources enhance knowledge and empathy for the past.
Frequently Asked Questions about Theatres of World War II
What are the major theaters of World War II?
The three major theaters of World War II are the Pacific Theater, the European Theater, and the North African Theater. Each theater had unique climates, countries involved, and styles of warfare.
How can students create a spider map about World War II theaters?
Students can create a spider map by placing their chosen World War II theater in the center, then adding branches for climate/weather, countries involved, and style of warfare. Each branch should include visual illustrations and descriptions.
What should be included in a storyboard about a World War II battle?
A storyboard about a World War II battle should feature a specific event or battle, include primary source descriptions or research summaries, and use relevant images or illustrations to depict the conflict.
Which countries were involved in the Pacific, European, and North African theaters?
The Pacific Theater involved countries like the United States and Japan. The European Theater included Germany, the United Kingdom, the Soviet Union, and others. The North African Theater saw combat among Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
What is the best way to illustrate the climate and style of warfare in a World War II theater?
The best way is to use visuals or photos that show the weather conditions and military tactics relevant to the chosen theater. For example, depict desert landscapes for North Africa or naval battles for the Pacific.
More Storyboard That Activities
World War II: An Introduction
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- Iwo Jima 7 • ~Ealasaid~ • License Attribution (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)
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- Surrender of Japan, 2 September 1945 Navy carrier planes fly in formation over the U.S. and British fleets in Tokyo Bay during surrender ceremonies. • San Diego Air & Space Museum Archives • License No known copyright restrictions (http://flickr.com/commons/usage/)
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