Defeating the Forces of Darkness: Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Atlantic Charter, and Responsibility

In this lesson, students will learn about the actions of President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the development of the Atlantic Charter. They will learn from Roosevelt’s example of how they can be responsible in their own lives.

Walk-In-The-Shoes Questions
As you read, imagine you are the protagonist.

• What challenges are you facing?
• What fears or concerns might you have?
• What may prevent you from acting in the way you ought?

Observation Questions

• Who was Franklin D. Roosevelt? What was his role on this trip?
• What was Roosevelt’s purpose on the Augusta?
• How did Roosevelt show responsibility in his discussion with Churchill?

Discussion Questions
Discuss the following questions with your students.

• What is the historical context of the narrative?
• What historical circumstances presented a challenge to the protagonist?
• How and why did the individual exhibit a moral and/or civic virtue in facing and overcoming the challenge?
• How did the exercise of the virtue benefit civil society?
• How might exercise of the virtue benefit the protagonist?
• What might the exercise of the virtue cost the protagonist?Would you react the same under similar circumstances? Why or why not?
• How can you act similarly in your own life? What obstacles must you overcome in order to do so?

• Students will examine how Franklin D. Roosevelt acted responsibly in developing the Atlantic Charter.
• Students will understand the importance of acting responsibly.
• Students will apply their knowledge toward being responsible in their own lives.