Reflections

What are some new and interesting facts and information that I have learned?
I have learned a great deal about World War 11 and the Pacific Theater in general.  Before I began this project, I had no idea there was a campaign in the South Pacific.  When most people think of World War 11, they think of the war in Europe with Hitler’s Nazi Germany.  The war in the pacific gets completely forgotten, even though it marked the end of World War 11.  While interviewing my grandfather I found out that he was actually stationed on the Island where the planes that carried the atomic bombs took off from.  He was stationed on Tinian Island in the South Pacific.  Once I found this information out I knew I had to do this research topic and project.  I tried to focus my project around his story of war to make it relevant and interesting for the reader and myself.  This was a wonderful topic to research and I truly learned a great deal of history about the United States and the world.  I am very grateful for this opportunity.

How will I make this topic relevant to my students?
The North Carolina Standard Course of Study Goal and Objective pertaining to my topic is:
COMPETENCY GOAL 4: The learner will trace key developments in United States history and describe their impact on the land and people of the nation and its neighboring countries.
4.05 Describe the impact of wars and conflicts on United States citizens, including but not limited to, the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War, and the twenty-first century war on terrorism.

Communication was essential in World War 11 and the Pacific Theater.  My grandfather told me how special it was to receive and send letters to friends and family back home.  One activity students can participate in is to imagine they are a soldier stationed in the South Pacific and to have them write a letter to a friend or family member about what is going on where they are at.  Students will need to research the particular island they are on and give specific details and facts about what they have experienced.  Students will also be given the opportunity to write a letter to the Japanese Empire, expressing their feelings about the war and possible ways a resolution and peace can be found.


How will my research help me as a future Social Studies Professional?
I have learned a great deal, not only as a researcher and student, but as a person in general.  This was a wonderful project to be a part of.  I realize the importance of providing good strong content and solid material for students to work with.  This provides a great stepping stone for students to build background knowledge and to have open minds about new content and topics.  I also realize the importance of allowing students to have a voice or opinion on what they are studying or completing a project on.  I feel very strongly about my topic, because my Grandfather was a part of this war.  I found it both extremely valuable and beneficial speaking with him about his experiences.  This project opens my mind up to the endless possibilities and activities that I can do with my future students.