Germans in the Woods
An animated recount from Joseph, aged 90. Joseph, a veteran of World War Two recounts the events of one day during the war.
Joseph describes shooting and killing a young German soldier in self defence.
In the second half of the animation he describes what effect the death had on him and how he has never been able to get the 'boy' out of his mind.
The animation touches on sensitive issues but is suitable for KS2.Teaching Ideas
I would use this animation in a broader unit about WWII rather than a stand alone Literacy lesson.
For discussion purposes pause the animation just after Joseph shoots the German. Discuss what feelings he might have. Ask the children to discuss whether or not it is 'Right' to kill someone in times of war. Can it ever be right?
Why do the children think it effected Joseph so much? Could create a conscience wall.
Writing
Joseph describes shooting and killing a young German soldier in self defence.
In the second half of the animation he describes what effect the death had on him and how he has never been able to get the 'boy' out of his mind.
The animation touches on sensitive issues but is suitable for KS2.Teaching Ideas
I would use this animation in a broader unit about WWII rather than a stand alone Literacy lesson.
For discussion purposes pause the animation just after Joseph shoots the German. Discuss what feelings he might have. Ask the children to discuss whether or not it is 'Right' to kill someone in times of war. Can it ever be right?
Why do the children think it effected Joseph so much? Could create a conscience wall.
Writing
- Joseph could write letters home to his parents/wife
- Write a diary.
- Write flashbacks describing the events.
- Use some of the images to allow the children to write vivid descriptions of life at war.
- Write a newspaper story about the events.
