Act as President Hoover to Solve the Bonus Army Dilemma

In this presidential decision making activity, students take on the role of President Hoover and his advisors to develop a solution and action plan regarding the Bonus Army. 

SITUATION: The worst economic depression in US history is gripping the nation and more than 10,000 veterans are now demanding immediate payment to their bonuses. They are now camped out across the capital and this Bonus Army is gaining national attention and millions of others also demand government action to solve their hardships. Tensions are rising and some fear this is becoming a security issue...How do you respond?

First, you review a timeline of important events that led to this crisis to help students understand factors leading to this issue. Then there is a 'context' overview slide that breaks down the crisis into a very understandable language. Then, students read the two page 'Presidential Briefing' and complete the 'Presidential Decisions' worksheet in this very engaging, student centered lesson.

The worksheet has students consider important questions a president must consider before coming to a decision- what do we know about this issue, what limitations do I have, what does the Constitution allow me to do, what do I wish the result to be, what could go wrong, how do the American people feel on this issue, and several more. Questions are scaffolded to support critical thinking and help students be successful. This is such a powerful problem-solving activity for history class that develops critical thinking and active learning! 

Then, students write a short speech announcing their decision and this could be read to the class so students learn how each group approached the crisis. Lastly, you review what the president actually did to handle this situation- which is explained on the slideshow. There is a sheet for students to record what actually happen and reflect on how well they did in the activity. It ends with an optional little quiz to review the essential terms and concepts from the lesson. 

Trust me, students will be so much more interested in what actually happened and think critically about a historical event they might otherwise have not cared a lick about! So get your students in the drive seat in history and engage them in some seriously exciting history!

This has everything you need to complete the activity- no outside resources are needed! And there are links to the Google slides version so you can edit anything you want!

Fun US History activities ready to excite your students and great for your homeschool history curriculum as well!