Skill Development Goals

1. Active listening skills: to fully understand the veteran's experiences and perspectives.

2. Active reading skills: to fully understand the veteran's experiences and perspectives.

3. Interview preparation and questioning: to gather additional information and clarification needed to flesh out the story.

4. Empathy and cultural sensitivity: to create a comfortable environment for the veteran to share their story, and to approach the interview with understanding and respect for the veteran's unique experiences.

Task 1: Processing The Interview

As we continue to delve deeper into the life and experiences of Michel Mockers, it is important that we approach this work with empathy, respect, and kindness. The stories and experiences shared by Michel are not just facts to be gathered, but a window into the emotional and traumatic events that have shaped him as a person.

In order to truly understand and capture Michel's story in a way that serves him and his legacy, we must take the time to research and understand the context of his experiences. This includes not only the details and facts, but also the emotions and universal constructs that he had to navigate and utilize as a leader and decision maker.

As we engage in this research and inquiry, it is important to remember to handle our conversations with Michel delicately and with respect for his emotional well-being. This means crafting questions that give him space to share what he is comfortable with, and avoiding those that may cause hurt or trigger traumatic memories.

To support this work, below are some resources on how to handle conversations with veterans, including tips on how to ask sensitive questions and how to approach research on traumatic experiences. I encourage everyone to take the time to review these resources and keep them in mind as we proceed with this milestone of the project.

As we continue to capture the details of Michel's life, let us also remember to capture the human side of his story, and to approach this work with a sense of empathy and understanding. 

Together, we can honor Michel and his legacy by properly telling his story for others to appreciate.

Task 2: Processing The Written Narrative

Students will be able to analyze, synthesize, and pull out key details, facts, and information from a first-person written narrative of a World War II French resistance fighter in order to prepare for a project to create a picture book of his story.

Learning Targets:

1. Students will be able to identify and analyze key details, facts, and information from a first-person written narrative of a World War II French resistance fighter.

2. Students will be able to synthesize and organize the information from the narrative in order to create a cohesive and engaging story for a picture book.

3. Students will be able to use graphic organizers or note-taking templates to pull out key details, facts, and information from the narrative.

4. Students will be able to use the key details, facts, and information from the narrative to create a picture book that accurately represents the story of the French resistance fighter during World War II.

Task 3: Preparing Interview Questions for Zoom 2

As we begin to delve into the experiences of a World War II veteran, it is important to approach this topic with empathy and an open mind. These veterans have lived through one of the most devastating and defining events in human history, and their experiences are both unique and powerful.

It is important to remember that these veterans have not only witnessed, but also lived through, unimaginable horrors and atrocities. They have seen the loss of friends and loved ones, and have had to make difficult and life-altering decisions. These experiences have left deep and lasting impressions on their lives, and it is crucial that we approach their stories with the utmost respect and sensitivity.

As we ask questions and listen to their stories, it is important to remember that these veterans may be reliving traumatic memories and that they may not be able to speak about certain aspects of their experiences. We must be patient and understanding as they share their stories with us, and we must always keep in mind the gravity and significance of their experiences.

By approaching this topic with empathy and an open mind, we can gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by these veterans and the impact that World War II had on their lives. It is a privilege to hear their stories and to learn from their experiences. Let's make sure we listen and treat their stories with the respect and care that they deserve.

Task 4: Closer Look At French Resistance WW2

This lesson presents information and primary sources that you can use in your classroom or learning environment to teach about the French Resistance fighters during World War II. Use these resources with your students to expand their knowledge of the role of French citizens in the war effort and the pioneering efforts of the resistance during this period.