Connect students directly to the concept in a personal way. Capture students' attention by initiating a group problem-solving activity before delivery of instruction. Begin with a situation that is familiar to students and builds on what they already know. Construct a learning experience that allows diverse and personal student responses. Facilitate the work of cooperative teams of students.

When class begins explain that you have uncovered a plot to cheat on the last test.

Objective: Students will experience institutional coercion as an introduction to the culture of the Cold War.

Activity: Before class begins the teacher places a red dot (or some other marker) on the desk of a few carefully chosen students. When class begins explain that you have uncovered a plot to cheat on the last test. Tell your students that you found notes written on small pieces of paper near the desks on which you have placed a red dot and that you will be calling the students in those desks into the hallway to question them one by one. Call students one at a time and question them about their knowlege of the plot and ask them to name other students involved. When all of the students with the red dots on their desks have been called continue to call students and question them until you have called three-fourths of your class into the hall. Remain in the hallway for a few minutes after the last student has returned. Then return to class and explain that the whole activity was a hoax. Ask students to share their feelings and reactions to the activity and then explain the link between this activity and McCarthyism.

Assessment: Students should demonstrate the ability to identify with the feelings of the men and women caught up in the Red Scare.