Mordechai Anielewicz

Activity Overview

Students will explore how individuals can impact events and the justification for resistance through the life of Mordechai Anielewicz, the leader of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

Grade Level

7-12

ELA Standards for Literacy in History/Social Studies:

RH1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.

RH2: Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate, objective summary of the source distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.

RH7:  Integrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.

RH8: Distinguish among fact, opinion, and reasoned judgment in a text. Identify and distinguish between a primary and secondary source on the same topic.

WHST6: Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, using search terms effectively; assess the credibility and accuracy of each source by applying discipline-specific criteria used in the social sciences.

WHST7: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Social Studies Framework:

10.5 UNRESOLVED GLOBAL CONFLICT (1914–1945): World War I and World War II led to geopolitical changes, human and environmental devastation, and attempts to bring stability and peace.

10.5d Nationalism and ideology played a significant role in shaping the period between the world wars.

10.5e Human atrocities and mass murders occurred in this time period.

SEL Benchmarks

1A. Identify and understand their emotions and how emotions relate to their actions. Use understanding of emotions to inform actions.

2A. Recognize and build empathy for the feelings and perspectives of others.

2B. Recognize and affirm individual identities as well as individual and group similarities and differences, including those rooted in culture, ethnicity, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ability, etc.

3A: Consider individual and collective social, emotional, and physical safety and well-being, as well as social context in making decisions.

Objectives

Students will describe the life and leadership of Mordechai Anielewicz and his role in organizing and leading the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

Students will evaluate the moral, strategic, and emotional justifications for resistance against Nazi oppression, using Anielewicz’s actions as a case study.

Students will analyze how individual choices and leadership can influence broader historical events, particularly in the context of resistance movements during the Holocaust.