Provide hands-on activities for practice and mastery. Check for understanding of concepts and skills by using relevant standard materials, i.e. worksheets, text problems, workbooks, teacher prepared exercises, etc.

Distribute copies of Student Handout 1

Objective: Students will explore the activities of Joseph McCarthy by examining headlines, quotes about McCarthy and quotes from McCarthy.

Activity: Distribute copies of Student Handout 1 and provide them with access to headlines and quotes dealing with McCarthy. One great source for these quotes is a teacher resource called, Analyzing the Fifties:Interactive Learning Through Involvement published by the Interactive Company in 1977. If this source or others is not readily available the assignment will work with copies of a good encyclopedia entry about McCarthy’s life and career.
The assignment requires students to interpret and analyze the statements of McCarthy and others to arrive at their own conclusions about the Senator and his activities. Be prepared to answer questions and fill in details. Walk around and monitor student progress.

Assessment: Student responses on Student Handout 1 should reflect a true understanding of McCarthy’s methods, character and the reactions provoked by McCarthy.