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Summary and Objective
Through examining the artifacts, reading, and discussing the information provided, students will understand that rationing was a nationwide plan to help the country’s war effort and to provide everyone with the same amount of things that were scarce. They will realize that some things became scarce because they came from places controlled by the enemy, others because they were imported and had to come by ships now needed by the military, and some things were scarce because they were needed to supply the military. Students will understand that rationing affected not only the amount and type of food people ate, the clothes they wore, and the distance they traveled but also increased national solidarity and prevented waste of food.
Teaching Plan
Step 1.
Although designed to be used with the internet, this activity will also work if you provide students with pictures as long as you print all pages and information included with each item in the collection. This activity may take two days to complete.
Step 2.
Find out what students know about rationing. Explain that in order to experience an in-depth look at the system of rationing, they will need to take a close look at various artifacts from the time they have been studying.
Step 3.
Divide the class into four groups. Have students visit the American Centuries web site and examine the four artifacts listed in the activity.
Step 4.
Have each group select one of the four questions and answer in writing:
1) What were the reasons and purpose for rationing during World War II?
2) What were the direct and indirect effects of rationing on everyday life?
3) What were the pros and cons of rationing?
4) How did rationing help our military win the war?
Step 5.
After answering the questions, each group should present their findings to the whole class.
Step 6.
If time and supplies allow, students might also want to create a ration book for their most commonly used everyday items and practice using it to personally experience the rationing system.
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