Activity Overview
Using primary source documents is an incredibly important part of studying history and understanding how the people of that time reacted to or were affected by events. When it comes to studying the Holocaust, understand the perspective of a victim will help students ground the events in reality and better analyze the effects of actions.
In this activity, students will create a traditional storyboard that represents the experience of a victim of the Holocaust. This assignment will first require students to research an individual that was impacted by the events of the Holocaust. There are several accounts, so students should be encouraged to go beyond Anne Frank's accounts. Once students have found a resource, such as an autobiography or interview, they will choose a series of quotes that they found to be the most profound. These quotes will act as an outline for the storyboard. Students should include each quote in the text box below and create a corresponding representation of the quote.
For an alternative to this assignment, students may want to create a graphic novel instead of a traditional storyboard. You can add additional templates to the assignment to give students an option and update the instructions accordingly.
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 storyboard detailing the experience of a victim of the Holocaust.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the description boxes, write a narrative based on the experience of the person you researched.
- Create illustrations using appropriate scenes, characters, items, or photos from the Photos for Class search bar.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
Using primary source documents is an incredibly important part of studying history and understanding how the people of that time reacted to or were affected by events. When it comes to studying the Holocaust, understand the perspective of a victim will help students ground the events in reality and better analyze the effects of actions.
In this activity, students will create a traditional storyboard that represents the experience of a victim of the Holocaust. This assignment will first require students to research an individual that was impacted by the events of the Holocaust. There are several accounts, so students should be encouraged to go beyond Anne Frank's accounts. Once students have found a resource, such as an autobiography or interview, they will choose a series of quotes that they found to be the most profound. These quotes will act as an outline for the storyboard. Students should include each quote in the text box below and create a corresponding representation of the quote.
For an alternative to this assignment, students may want to create a graphic novel instead of a traditional storyboard. You can add additional templates to the assignment to give students an option and update the instructions accordingly.
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 storyboard detailing the experience of a victim of the Holocaust.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the description boxes, write a narrative based on the experience of the person you researched.
- Create illustrations using appropriate scenes, characters, items, or photos from the Photos for Class search bar.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Perspectives of a Holocaust Victim
Incorporate Primary Source Analysis into Storyboarding
Encourage students to examine diaries, letters, or oral testimonies as primary sources. Highlight how these authentic accounts provide a deeper, more personal understanding of the Holocaust, and inspire students to use direct evidence in their storyboards.
Guide Students to Select Meaningful Quotes
Direct students to pick quotes that show emotions, challenges, or turning points. Explain that choosing powerful excerpts helps make their storyboard more engaging and authentic.
Model Visual Representation of Emotions
Demonstrate how to translate feelings from text into images. Show examples of using color, facial expressions, and settings to capture the mood of each quote in the storyboard.
Facilitate Class Discussion on Empathy and Perspective
Lead a class conversation about what students learned from exploring a victim's viewpoint. Encourage respectful sharing and reflection to help deepen understanding and empathy.
Assess and Celebrate Diverse Storytelling Approaches
Review each student's approach to presenting a Holocaust victim's story. Highlight creativity, accuracy, and emotional impact, and publicly recognize thoughtful work to build classroom confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions about Perspectives of a Holocaust Victim
What is the purpose of using primary source documents when teaching about the Holocaust?
Primary source documents help students connect with real experiences, providing authentic perspectives and fostering a deeper understanding of the Holocaust. They anchor historical events in reality and enable critical analysis of individual responses and impacts.
How can students create a storyboard from a Holocaust victim's perspective?
Students should research an individual victim, select meaningful quotes from sources like autobiographies or interviews, and use these quotes to outline a storyboard. Each quote is paired with a visual representation, helping convey the victim's experience.
What steps should teachers follow to assign a Holocaust victim perspective activity?
Teachers should instruct students to select a Holocaust victim, find primary sources, choose impactful quotes, and create a storyboard or graphic novel illustrating those experiences. Clear guidelines and options for templates enhance engagement.
Are there alternatives to a traditional storyboard for this lesson?
Yes, students can opt to create a graphic novel instead of a storyboard. Teachers can offer additional templates or adjust instructions to accommodate different creative formats, allowing for more personalized expression.
Why is it important for students to research individuals beyond Anne Frank when studying the Holocaust?
Encouraging research beyond Anne Frank exposes students to a wider range of victim experiences, helping them understand the diverse and multifaceted impact of the Holocaust on different individuals and communities.
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