Class Lesson: The J. F. K. Assassination

Historical Context: In 1960, John F. Kennedy became the youngest man ever elected President of the United States. With his youth came a tremendous sense of optimism, energy, and determination. These qualities seemed to be contagious, and a generation of young Americans were inspired by his leadership. While there were the beginning signs of trouble (the Civil Rights Movement was becoming more urgent; increased involvement in Vietnam; women beginning to demand more equality; poverty in the midst of general prosperity, etc.) America under Kennedy’s leadership had an incredible sense of confidence about its ability to confront and solve these problems. But, on November 22, 1963 all of that changed when Kennedy was assassinated. Most Americans who were alive then can still say exactly where they were and what they were doing when they found out about it. And most Americans have some opinion about “what really happened.” However, whether or not we know the truth, the ways in which America was changed by the assassination are undisputable.

Directions

1.  Visit my web site and familiarize yourself with the directions, guidelines, and rubric for this project

2.  Research your topic- Use your textbook (Chapter 29.1 and 29.2) and at least two other reputable sources

3.  Prepare a PowerPoint slideshow that includes the required info and that you can present in ~10 minutes

4.  Plan a creative, but useful activity that you can do with the class in ~5 minutes to wrap up your lesson

5.  Arrange to meet with me several days before to your presentation- I will look over and provide feedback regarding your research, your PowerPoint slideshow, and your activity

You will need to research the following information.

-  Basic facts about the assassination itself- when, where, who was involved, what was going on, etc.

-  Basic facts about the short term effects of the assassination

-  Analysis of the significance of the assassination

-  Basic facts about the Warren Commission: what was it, why was it created, what did it find, etc.

-  Overview of the controversy regarding the findings of the Warren Commission and the various conspiracy theories (these theories can only be a small part of your presentation)

-  Your educated opinion of “what really happened”

Your presentation will be on Monday, May 10th