Secret War
Historical Significance
Students will explore the impact of a ‘Secret War’ on the outcomes of the Second World War in this lesson. It may also be prudent to discuss the connection between espionage and a “Total War” (previous lesson), and the role of espionage in the development of Canada’s identity (why do so few people know about this part of Canada’s history and contribution to the Second World War? Does this prove or disprove its significance?) If something is “necessary” then it can also be seen as having had a significant impact (then and now).
Theme:
Second World War
Levels:
Intermediate, Secondary
PDF (291.9 KB)
Activation: Can you break this code?
Exploration: What are we afraid of?
Discussion: Was a "Secret War" necessary to our success in the Second World War?
Lesson Duration
1 class period (75 minutes)
Lesson Materials
- Any props that might make for a good “disguise” for a spy.
- Secret War Resources
- Secret War Worksheet
Preparation
Print and Prepare “Learning Centres” for this lesson. These can be found in the Secret War Resources PDF.
Arrange tables in your classroom into 6 groups (4 or 5 desks at each group).
Notes For Educators
You can adjust the number of Learning Centres accordingly by selecting relevant content for your students. Knowing your learners will determine whether you run 4 or 6 centres.
You can expand each centre to include further research by students into the topics presented. I find that students are readily curious in this lesson.
Role-playing, props, or “spy clothes” are welcome additions to this lesson.
Additional Resources
Uncommon Courage (online book from Veteran’s Affairs Canada)
Camp X - Canadian Encyclopedia
“The Secret Life of Women Spies” from the Toronto Star, 2008
Private SNAFU - Cartoon Propaganda (including racist portrayals) Video (3:45)
“X-Company” is a modern day Canadian series about the historical events of Canadian spies and spy training at Camp X in the Second World War
Second World War Propaganda Poster about “Spies”
Camp X - official site
Article: “Camp X has rich history as Canadian Spy School”
Secret War content from BBC Schools
The Enigma Machine - Information and Video Clips
Unbreakable Canadian Codes in WWII - Cree Code-talkers
Photo Credit: CBC Archives
PDF (291.9 KB)
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