Summary: This three day lesson plan divides the class into proponents and opponents to the Marshall Plan. Using primary documents from the Truman Library website, the proponents create a persuasive speech trying to convince a skeptical American public to support the measures of rebuilding war-torn Europe. The opponents will use general arguments against the plan to formulate questions to ask the proponents after their speeches. After presentations, students will construct an essay detailing both sides of the arguments and ultimately taking a side in the debate.
Overarching Questions:
- CIVICS: How well does the government balance individual rights and the common good, including the need to maintain order, safety and a healthy environment, during this time period?
- ECONOMICS: What is the proper role of government in the economy? (Especially with regard to economic crises, national defense/security, health and safety of the people, and economic development and practices.
NJ Student Learning Standards for Social Studies:
- 6.1.12.EconEM.12.a: Assess the role of the public and private sectors in promoting economic growth and ensuring economic stability.
- 6.1.12.HistoryCC.12.c: Analyze efforts to eliminate communism, such as McCarthyism, and their impact on individual civil liberties.
Links to Lesson: