Three-Week Thematic Unit Exploring the Holocaust
Eighth Grade
During this unit study, students will be able to:
1. read a play and other supplementary materials centered on the theme �I Still
Believe.�
2. interpret the four basic literary elements of drama, including conflict,
complications, climax, and resolution.
3. apply a variety of pre-reading, reading, and post-reading strategies, with a
special emphasis on using prior knowledge.
4. respond to the literature using a variety of modes, including journal prompts,
homework assignments, in-class worksheets, contract projects, tests, and
quizzes.
5. learn and use new vocabulary words.
6. experience reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities focusing on the
Holocaust and World War II.
7. understand the concepts of a play, including italicized stage directions, a list of
characters, act and scene numbers, and boldface dialogue tags to signify who
is speaking.
8. plan, draft, revise, proofread, and publish a comparison-contrast essay about
two characters in the play.
9. maintain a �Diary of Student Name� as a response journal.
10. gain an understanding of the impact of the events of the Holocaust on
individuals in today's society.
11. explore the events of the Holocaust.
12. examine moral questions relating to the Holocaust.
13. express understanding through writing, art, role-playing, performing, or
conducting research through contract projects.
