Teaching the Holocaust
5th/6th Grade Trunk: Through the Eyes of Children

Why did we choose the theme, “Through the Eyes of Children?”

This trunk, devoted to the Holocaust as perceived by children, attempts to share the experiences of just a few of the one and a half million children who perished, as well as the stories of the youth who managed to survive, and the courageous stories of individuals who risked their lives to help others.  Through this focus on children, students will attain a more personal understanding of the Holocaust and the difficult circumstances with which people were faced.

Students are encouraged to consider the effects of stereotyping, alienation, and prejudice.  It is through the study of the Holocaust that students can learn about social and individual responsibility, decision making, and the difference just one person can make. 

Contents of 5th/6th Grade Trunk & Annotated Bibliography (pdf)

The contents of this trunk include multiple copies of selected books to be used for reading groups. These books are Daniel’s Story (10 copies), Number the Stars (30 copies), Sharing is Healing (10 copies), and Hana’s Suitcase (15 copies).

The trunk contains books and materials at a variety of reading and skill levels.


Optional Additional Materials for 5th/6th Grade Trunk

If you would like to request that any of these materials be added to your trunk, please indicate this on your trunk request form by writing, "please add..." in the comment field.  Please review the contents of the trunk before requesting that additional materials be added.

  • "Friendship in Vienna." Buena Vista Home Video, 1993. 94 mins. (VHS)
    Inge Dournelad and Lise Mueller are best friends in 1938 Austria, despite the fact that Inge is Jewish and Lise is the daughter of a Nazi official. Though they are forbidden to see each other, they meet secretly against the backdrop of the increasingly violent streets of Vienna. After the Germans annex Austria, Inge and her family escape to America with the help of Lise. Starring Ed Asner and Jane Alexander.