Activity Overview
FDR'S New Deal initiatives were a major turning point in the economy during the Great Depression. The New Deal was comprised of several different initiatives to help tackle the many different problems that existed during the Great Depression, from unemployment to the failure of banks. To introduce these programs, have students outline the major New Deal initiatives using a spider map. This will give students a solid foundation to further explore how each program aimed to solve the most prevalent problems of the Great Depression.
FDR's New Deal Initiatives
- Public Works Programs
- Stabilizing Banks
- Regulating the Economy
- Assistance to Farmers
To further explore these programs, check out our other New Deal activities.
Extended Activity
Have students create a spider map to detail the initiatives taken by President Barack Obama in 2008 to solve the recession crisis. Students should state how the president attempted to solve many of the same issues that existed during the Great Depression, including unemployment and the revitalization of businesses. This will help connect the politics of the 1930s with that of the 2000s.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard analyzing the different New Deal initiatives.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the different New Deal initiatives.
- Describe the aim of each initiative in the description box.
- Create an illustration to accompany each initiative using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
FDR'S New Deal initiatives were a major turning point in the economy during the Great Depression. The New Deal was comprised of several different initiatives to help tackle the many different problems that existed during the Great Depression, from unemployment to the failure of banks. To introduce these programs, have students outline the major New Deal initiatives using a spider map. This will give students a solid foundation to further explore how each program aimed to solve the most prevalent problems of the Great Depression.
FDR's New Deal Initiatives
- Public Works Programs
- Stabilizing Banks
- Regulating the Economy
- Assistance to Farmers
To further explore these programs, check out our other New Deal activities.
Extended Activity
Have students create a spider map to detail the initiatives taken by President Barack Obama in 2008 to solve the recession crisis. Students should state how the president attempted to solve many of the same issues that existed during the Great Depression, including unemployment and the revitalization of businesses. This will help connect the politics of the 1930s with that of the 2000s.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard analyzing the different New Deal initiatives.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the different New Deal initiatives.
- Describe the aim of each initiative in the description box.
- Create an illustration to accompany each initiative using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about FDR’s New Deal Initiatives
How to Facilitate a Class Debate on the Effectiveness of the New Deal
Engage students by organizing a structured debate on the successes and challenges of the New Deal. Debating helps students think critically and understand multiple perspectives.
Assign debate roles to groups or individuals
Divide students into two teams: one supporting the New Deal's effectiveness and one questioning it. Assign roles like opening speaker, rebuttal responder, and closing argument presenter for each group.
Provide students with resources and guiding questions
Give each group articles, textbook pages, or primary sources about the New Deal. Share guiding questions such as, "Did the New Deal end the Great Depression?" and "Which programs had the most impact?" to focus their research.
Set clear rules and time limits for the debate
Explain the format, such as time for opening statements, rebuttals, and closing remarks. Keeping timing consistent ensures fair participation and keeps students on track.
Facilitate the debate and guide reflection afterward
Moderate the discussion by keeping students respectful and on-topic. After the debate, lead a reflection on what they learned about the New Deal, and have students share which arguments they found most convincing and why.
Frequently Asked Questions about FDR’s New Deal Initiatives
What were FDR's New Deal initiatives during the Great Depression?
FDR's New Deal initiatives were a series of government programs and reforms launched to address the economic crisis of the Great Depression. These included public works programs, bank stabilization, economic regulation, and assistance to farmers, all aimed at reducing unemployment and reviving the economy.
How can I teach students about the major New Deal programs quickly?
Use a spider map activity where students outline and illustrate key New Deal initiatives—such as public works, bank reforms, and farm assistance—along with their aims. This visual tool helps students grasp complex information efficiently.
What is a spider map and how does it help in teaching the New Deal?
A spider map is a graphic organizer that lets students visually organize information around a central concept. For the New Deal, it helps students break down and connect the various initiatives, making complex historical topics easier to understand.
How did FDR's New Deal compare to President Obama's initiatives during the 2008 recession?
Both FDR's New Deal and Obama's 2008 initiatives addressed economic crises by focusing on job creation, financial stabilization, and business support. Educators can engage students by comparing how each president tackled unemployment and economic recovery in their time.
What is an easy classroom activity to analyze New Deal programs?
Assign a storyboard or spider map project where students identify, describe, and illustrate major New Deal initiatives. This hands-on activity reinforces understanding and encourages creativity.
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