The Political Dr. Seuss: Analyzing Seuss' World War Two Political Cartoons
In this three-part class, we'll celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday by analyzing the political cartoons he created to help the American war effort in World War Two.
Tyler Kemarly
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:(405)
What's included
3 live meetings
2 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Since the 1700s, political cartoons have played a role in United States politics and public affairs. The wildly popular American children's' author, Dr. Seuss, drew political cartoons for the PM Newspaper during World War Two. In this class, students will analyze his cartoons and discuss the potential messages behind Seuss's cartoons. Class Structure: First Meeting: Introduction to World War 2, Dr. Suess, and Important Vocabulary, Discussion Second Meeting: Cartoon Analysis and Web Scavenger Hunt Third/Final Meeting: Modern Day Cartoon Analysis and Creation/Presentation of Original Cartoon Political cartoon topics covered will include symbols, caricatures, stereotypes, analogies, juxtaposition, irony, captioning, and labels. World War Two topics covered will include fascism, antisemitism, isolationism, America First Movement, Japanese American Internment, and Left-Wing politics during World War Two. Lessons will take place from a historical/fact-based point of view. Students are encouraged to draw on prior knowledge and make modern-day connections while critically thinking for themselves.
Learning Goals
Students will:
- Analyze political cartoons
- Read and discuss an article about political cartooning
- Discuss their observations of Dr. Seuss's political cartoons
- Create their own political cartoons about a current event
Other Details
Parental Guidance
First Meeting: Pencil/Pen and Paper
Second Meeting: Pencil/Pen and Paper
Third Meeting: Drawing materials (blank white paper, colored pencils, magazines suitable for cutting, scissors, glue)
Supply List
Students will need access to paper, pencil, and any sort of creation method they want to use to create their own political cartoon. Students are welcomed to draw their final cartoon by hand or create it on a website.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined May, 2019
4.8
405reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am certified in social studies and hold a degree in history. One of my areas of expertise in my history degree and now in the classroom is World War Two, particularly propaganda and political cartoons. I approach all social studies lessons from a fact and history-based standpoint. I encourage all students to explore and articulate their own ideas and points of view.Reviews
Live Group Class
$36
for 3 classes1x per week, 3 weeks
50 min
Completed by 22 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
3-6 learners per class
