Examining the Important Civic Values with Elementary Students Using Trade Books about the Holocaust: A Five-to-Six Day Unit

This unit illustrates the role of trade books in teaching important social studies values and content. Using four trade books appropriate for use with elementary students, the unit examines behaviors of people identified as bullies, bystanders, and survivors who experienced the Holocaust as well as civic values and behaviors required of people who wish to live in and promote a society that respects the human rights of all people. The lessons examine four stories: an allegory, a folk-tale, a biography, and an American story of civic responses to hate in1993. Careful re-examination of the important concepts and behaviors in these stories serve to reinforce learning and motivate students to learn meaningful lessons from the Holocaust, including the necessity to apply the lessons in their daily activities.