Lesson 14

Lesson: Atomic Bomb Research

Objective: Students will be able to explain both sides of the controversial issue of dropping
atomic bombs on Japan to end World War II. Students will use the web to research both
sides of the issue, in order to decide which side they are one, and to form verbal arguments
for their side.
Common Core Standards:
10.1 Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources,
attending to such features as the date and origin of the information.
10.2 Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide
an accurate summary of how key events or ideas develop over the course of the text.
10.6 Compare the point of view of two or more authors for how they treat the same or
similar topics, including which details they include and emphasize in their respective
accounts.
10.7 Integrate quantitative or technical analysis (e.g., charts, research data) with qualitative
analysis in print or digital text.
10.9 Compare and contrast treatments of the same topic in several primary and secondary
sources.
Materials: Tablets, paper, pencils/pens
Directions: Review with students the steps that led to the end of the war, particularly the
Battle of Iwo Jima and the dropping of the atomic bombs on Japan. Explain to them that
today they will be studying the issue further, and choosing a side. Have students use their
tablets to access the class website, where they will find two scholarly articles on this last
event, one article for each side. Read the articles with the class popcorn style.
Allow for a brief discussion on the issue. Then tell students that they are to use the rest of
the period to research both sides further on their tablets. Tell them that tomorrow theyll
be having a debate, so they will need to not only have chosen their sides by then, but also
be able to defend it rationally. They also need to understand the opposing viewpoints in
order to address them in the debate, so they need to study both sides before they reach
their opinion or position.
Students use the remainder of the period doing web research, and taking whatever notes
they feel will help them in the debate. They can use their tablets or pen and paper to take
notes. Make your way around the room and ensure that everyone is focused and on task,
and provide any help needed.