About This Lesson
Explore the first three stages of genocide (Classification, Symbolization, and Discrimination) through case studies of Darfur, Cambodia, and Afghanistan. This interdisciplinary, standards-aligned curriculum for grades 9–12 combines historical inquiry, close reading, primary-source analysis, media literacy, discussion, argument writing, and prevention-focused student action. Students analyze “us vs. them” narratives in Darfur, examine the weaponization and reclamation of cultural symbols in Cambodia, and investigate institutional discrimination and genocide risk indicators in Afghanistan.
Performance tasks include a classification spectrum and counter-narrative, a living memorial and symbol-literacy campaign, and an evidence-based position paper developed through a policy simulation. Designed to help students move from recognizing historical patterns to thinking critically about prevention, agency, and responsible civic action.
The series uses a consistent instructional structure of a launch lesson, two to three core lessons, anchor texts, formative checks for understanding, differentiated materials, and summative assessment.
The curriculum is particularly appropriate for World History, World Geography, Human Geography, Government/Civics, English Language Arts, Holocaust and Genocide Studies, Ethics, Media Literacy, and interdisciplinary courses. It incorporates suggested California Common Core ELA/Literacy and California History–Social Science standards, while providing accommodations such as multiple reading levels, guided notes, audio texts, vocabulary supports, sentence frames, translated or subtitled materials, and structured discussion supports.
Because genocide education can involve difficult and emotionally challenging material, the curriculum also incorporates content warnings, classroom agreements, opportunities for breaks and private reflection, and guidance for addressing harmful comments, politicized responses, and emotionally activated students. These supports are integrated into the instructional design rather than treated as separate add-ons.
