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K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Submarines: Underway on nuclear power

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/xpeditions/lessons/13/g912/k19underway.html

A lesson plan for grades 9–12 Social Studies

Provider: National Geographic


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In this lesson, students explore the race to develop nuclear submarines between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Activities in this lesson engage students in whole class discussion, collaborative group work, online research, and development of a class presentation.

Students will:

  • learn basic facts about the Cold War and how it contributed to the development of nuclear-powered submarines;
  • work in groups to gather information about the role of nuclear submarines during the Cold War and the role they play today; and
  • compile what they have learned to create classroom presentations.

Xpeditions provides detailed directions for completing the lesson, suggestions for assessment and extension activities, discussion questions, and links to necessary web resources.

North Carolina Curriculum Alignment

Social Studies (2003)

Grade 11–12 — Advanced Placement United States History

  • Goal 14: The Beginnings of the Cold War and the 1950s (1945-1960): The learner will assess the causes and effects of United States/Soviet tensions, the Civil Rights Movement and economic prosperity.
    • Objective 14.01: Analyze the changes in United States foreign policy related to the tensions of the Cold War and assess the role of organizations established to address them.
    • Objective 14.02: Analyze the strained relationship between the United States and the U.S.S.R. and suspicion between the superpowers in Europe and Asia.

Grade 11–12 — United States History

  • Goal 10: World War II and the Beginning of the Cold War (1930s-1963) - The learner will analyze United States involvement in World War II and the war's influence on international affairs in following decades.
    • Objective 10.04: Elaborate on changes in the direction of foreign policy related to the beginnings of the Cold War.
    • Objective 10.05: Assess the role of organizations established to maintain peace and examine their continuing effectiveness.
  • Goal 11: Recovery, Prosperity, and Turmoil (1945-1980) - The learner will trace economic, political, and social developments and assess their significance for the lives of Americans during this time period.
    • Objective 11.01: Describe the effects of the Cold War on economic, political, and social life in America.