Description
This mini-research project invites students to learn about the Heroes of the Holocaust, shifting the focus away from perpetrators and toward the brave, compassionate individuals who chose to act with courage in the face of injustice. Rather than researching war criminals, students study people who risked their lives to protect those being persecuted, reinforcing the idea that there is always a choice to do what is right.
Through this Holocaust research activity, students explore themes of kindness, moral courage, and ethical decision-making. Learners research real historical figures and read a short informational text explaining the designation Righteous Among the Nations, helping students understand how ordinary people made extraordinary choices during one of history’s darkest periods.
Students work collaboratively in small groups to synthesize their research and create a presentation slideshow, which they then share with the class. This project strengthens research skills, critical thinking, collaboration, and public speaking, while also supporting meaningful discussion and reflection.
An editable Word document is included, allowing teachers to customize directions, expectations, or pacing to fit their classroom needs. This activity works well as part of a Holocaust unit, a social justice lesson, or an interdisciplinary ELA and social studies project for middle school and high school students.