Summary: This lesson chronicles the Space Race with an examination of primary source documents, from President Kennedy's call to land on the Moon to Apollo 17—the last lunar Mission. Particular emphasis is placed upon President Nixon's role in the space program. As students complete their examination of documents, they answer three compelling questions: 1) What compelled the Space Race of the 1960s and 1970s?; 2) Why do you think it came to an end?; 3) Do you think the United States should go back to the Moon? Why or why not?
Overarching Questions:
- CIVICS: Have individuals and groups influenced public policy during this time period? If so, how and what has been the impact?
NJ Student Learning Standards for Social Studies:
- 6.1.12.EconNE.12.a: Explain the implications and outcomes of the Space Race from the perspectives of the scientific community, the government, and the people.
Link to Lesson: Landing a Man on the Moon: President Nixon and the Apollo Program | DocsTeach