Note about the content on this page:
In addition to containing original content, the Gellert Center for Education area of our site makes heavy use of links to vetted online material that further explains or enhances the information on these pages. All of these links appear in red like this link to the main page of our web site. We encourage you to follow these links – they will open in new tabs or windows (depending on your browser settings) so you will not lose access to the page you are viewing here.
This section of our site contains links to lesson plans and resources appropriate for Middle School Students. If you have any questions or suggestions about any content or wish to suggest additional material that may be appropriate, please reach out to us at gellertcenter@nmholocaustmuseum.org.
Guidelines for Teaching the Holocaust (USHMM)
Teaching Holocaust history requires a high level of sensitivity and keen awareness of the complexity of the subject matter. These guidelines reflect approaches appropriate for effective teaching in general and are particularly relevant to Holocaust education.
Introduction to the Holocaust (USHMM)
The Holocaust was the systematic, state-sponsored persecution and murder of six million European Jews by the Nazi German regime and its allies and collaborators. The Holocaust was an evolving process that took place throughout Europe between 1933 and 1945.
NMHIM Lesson Plans:
Lesson: Holocaust Timeline Activity (USHMM)
This lesson is structured around a multi-layered wall timeline that encourages critical thinking about the relationship between Nazi policy, World War II, historical events, and individual experiences during the Holocaust.
Grade level: Adaptable for grades 7–12
Subject: Multidisciplinary
Time required: This activity is highly adaptable and can be completed in 60 minutes or multiple class sessions, used as a point of reference throughout an entire unity of study, or have thematic extension activities added.
NMHIM Lesson Plans:
Lesson: Ben Ferenz (NMHIM)
Lesson: Identity Box/Collage (NMHIM)
Lesson: WWII Scrapbook (NMHIM)
Using Stories and Voices
One Survivor Remembers – Gerda Weissmann’s account of surviving the Holocaust
(40 minute film produced in 1995 by HBO and USHMM)
Using Presentations
US Immigration Policy and Experiences of Jewish Refugees – Sample Lessons
(lesson curated and presented from the NMHIM Educational Leadership Team and NM PBS)
Using Books and Literature
Teaching Materials Using Books and Literature (USHMM)
back to Lessons for Upper Elementary, Middle School and High School Students
Thank you to our partners in this program:
To help us improve the Gellert Center for Education section of our web site, please complete the form below and share your information with us. By providing this information, we will be able to learn more about who is using this site, to send you emails about updates to our content and to ask for your feedback on our materials and programs. NOTE: We will never share, rent or sell your information to any third part individual, company or organization.