USHMM | Exploring Holocaust Literature in the Classroom

Effective ways to teach historical understanding and promote literacy goals

Holocaust literature can immerse students in the past, helping them consider how the events of the Holocaust affected people and communities. During this free virtual program, seasoned educators will discuss the importance of incorporating accurate historical context when teaching about the Holocaust in middle and high school classrooms. The program will highlight instructional strategies that strengthen literacy skills and will explore resources based on the Museum’s primary source collection that help students understand how and why the Holocaust happened.

Key Takeaways:

• Approaches for learning essential historical context while building literacy skills
• Effective strategies to develop key skills, such as close reading, writing, analysis, research, listening, speaking, and reflection
• Introduction to foundational teaching resources supporting the use of Holocaust literature
• Information about professional development opportunities
• Advantages of cross-curricular connections

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Panelists will share strategies for examining Holocaust literature. For example, Lois Lowry's Number the Stars is one of many valuable works that can engage students in the classroom. To support the discussion, a copy of Number the Stars will be mailed directly to program registrants (available for educators with a US or US territory mailing address).

Panelists

Kim Blevins-Relleva, Educator Programs Manager, William Levine Family Institute for Holocaust Education, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

Sarah Schurman, High School English Teacher, Fairfax County Public Schools, Virginia; Museum Teacher Fellow

Dorian Stuber, English Professor Emeritus, Hendrix College, Conway, Arkansas; Editor, Critical Insights: Holocaust Literature

Kristen Tinch, District-Level Instructional Coach, Fayette County School District, Kentucky

Moderator

Gretchen Skidmore, Director, Education Initiatives, William Levine Family Institute for Holocaust Education, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

To register, click here.