Choices: A Unit on Conflict and Nuclear War.

Ten lessons on the evolution of the nuclear arms race, the nature and consequences of using nuclear weapons, and new ways that conflicts among nations might be resolved are presented for the junior high school level. The unit contains age-appropriate materials to equip students with skills and knowledge to understand what choices can be made to ensure a peaceful and secure future. Also, conflict is addressed on a personal level so that students can analyze their own behavior and understand the importance of communicating, negotiating, and dealing with aggression through nonviolent means. Specific topics covered are the effects of the first atomic bomb; conflict on a personal level; communication, negotiation, and compromise; nuclear war; the arms race; escalation; relations between the United States and the Soviet Union; reducing risks of nuclear war; the development of one's own opinions; and the use of imagination in considering alternative futures. For the final lesson students embark on a group or class project that will allow them to act on their own knowledge and feelings. Students are involved in simulation and role play, and in doing case studies, and worksheets. Each lesson lists goals, activities, and materials required. Reproducible student worksheets and quizzes are also provided. Appendices contain a list of resource materials, fact sheets and background information, teacher and student glossaries, and forms for teacher and student evaluations. (KC)