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Teaching the Holocaust and other Genocides

Elementary Activity for Gino Bartali

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Activity Overview
This learning activity introduces students to the story of Gino Bartali, an Italian cyclist who used his talents to participate in the rescue of Jews during the Holocaust. Teacher should read aloud to students, Bartali’s Bicycle, The True Story of Gino Bartali, Italy’s Secret Hero by Megan Hoyt. 
Grade Level
3-5
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.
WHST7: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Social Studies Framework:
3.8b Across time and place, communities and cultures have struggled with prejudice and discrimination as barriers to justice and equality for all people.
3.8c When faced with prejudice and discrimination, people can take steps to support social action and change.
SEL Benchmarks
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 connect the story of Gino Bartali to broader historical themes of resistance, humanitarianism, and the impact of individual actions on the course of history.


Project Ideas

  1. Draw Gino Bartali’s Bicycle: Students can draw a picture of Gino Bartali’s bicycle, focusing on how he might have hidden the forged documents inside it. Ask them to label the parts where the documents could have been concealed and write a sentence or two about why Bartali used his bicycle for this purpose. 
  2. Create a Hero Poster: Students design a poster celebrating Gino Bartali as a hero. They can include his achievements in cycling and the ways he helped save lives during World War II. Encourage them to use drawings, words, and symbols that represent his bravery. 

Writing Prompts

  1. Imagine you are Gino Bartali riding your bicycle to help someone in need. Write a short story about what you see and feel on your journey. 
  2. Why do you think Gino Bartali didn’t want to talk about the brave things he did after the war? How does that make him a hero? 

Discussion Questions 

1. What did Gino Bartali do to help people during World War II? 

2. Why do you think he used his bicycle to carry the documents?