21
Genocide Studies Handbook:
A Resource Tool for Students
By Lindsey Mutschler & Lin Lucas
PROJECT OUTLINE
After watching and discussing the video
With My Own Eyes,
students will work individually or in small groups to
design handbooks on the topic of genocide. This "handbook" will contain useful terms, historical facts on the
Holocaust and other acts of mass extermination, and a list of resources that can be used for further studies.
RATIONALE & BACKGROUND
In examining the Holocaust unit or other genocide/human right issues, it is critical for students to see overarching
connections between acts of mass extermination and smaller acts of violence. The atrocities perpetrated during the
Holocaust were not limited to one time or place; the cycle of discrimination and violence is universal and timeless.
By guiding students to examine the role of scapegoating in genocide, we facilitate their understanding of the
relationship between individual acts and systems that foster and perpetuate oppression.
With My Own Eyes
is an ideal 20-minute introduction to the Holocaust and contemporary acts of genocide. Used as
a starter film to a genocide/human rights unit, it can help narrow the focus of study to the power of choice and
personal responsibility. By researching genocide and creating "handbooks," students become advocates for social
change. The project becomes both a tool for education and intervention.
OBJECTIVES
Students will work collaboratively with classmates to complete the project
Students will identify and extract key information from film
Students will conduct research on other acts of genocide
Students will demonstrate understanding of key information by creating a handbook
Students will synthesize themes of genocide and the Holocaust
Students will realize connections between genocide and personal responsibility
REQUIREMENTS
With My Own Eyes
DVD
Access to computer and printer
Paper
Time:
Three 45-minute sessions; additional time for project research
