I Survived the Hindenburg Disaster, 1937 is a gripping novel that plunges readers into the heart of one of the most notorious air disasters in history.
In the early hours of May 6th, 1937, the world witnessed one of the most tragic and mysterious disasters in aviation history. The Hindenburg, a massive German airship, burst into flames and crashed to the ground in New Jersey. Thirty-six people were killed on board and many others were injured
But amidst the tragedy and chaos, there were stories of courage and survival that continue to fascinate us today. This book takes us on a journey from excitement and anticipation. The story begins with boarding the Hindenburg, to the terrifying moments when disaster struck, and finally to the aftermath of the tragedy.
With vivid descriptions and heart-stopping details, this book offers a rare glimpse into one of the most memorable events of the 20th century. For anyone fascinated by aviation history or simply looking for a riveting story, “I Survived the Hindenburg Disaster, 1937” is a must-read.
I Survived the Hindenburg Disaster, 1937 Teaching Activities
Book Unit Samples
You will find the following in this novel study sample:
- Vocabulary Practice
- Comprehension Questions for Chapters 1-2
- Constructed Response Question for Chapters 1-2
Teaching Idea #1 – The Hindenburg Disaster Historical Account
This one-page article about the Hindenburg Disaster is an ideal way for students to compare and contrast an actual event to a fictional account. The article comes with comprehension questions.
Teaching Idea #2 – Reporting on the Event
Have students watch the newsreel of the Hindenburg crash. Next, have students imagine that they are reporters covering the Hindenburg Disaster. They can write a news article using information they have learned about the event. Be sure students use primary and secondary sources, such as newspaper articles, and photographs, as well as quotes from eyewitnesses.
Teaching Idea #3 – The Science Behind the Hindenburg Disaster
- Teach students about helium-filled zeppelins. Students will learn the answers to these questions.
- What’s the difference between an airship, a blimp, and a zeppelin?
- How do they stay aloft?
- How high and how fast can they fly?
- Have students work in small groups to design and build their own airships. They can test their designs and see which ones are the most successful. Students can judge their airships in terms of stability, speed, and safety. This activity will help students to understand the engineering principles involved in building airships. Instructions for building a flyable airship can be found in the Hindenburg Disaster Handout.
Teaching Idea #4 – The Hindenburg Disaster Timeline
Option 1:
Have students research the Hindenburg Disaster and create a timeline of events leading up to the disaster, including the building and launch of the airship, the events leading up to the explosion, and the aftermath. Students can use primary and secondary sources, such as newspaper articles, photographs, and eyewitness accounts, to create their timelines.
Option 2:
A timeline is included in the blog post download. It includes comprehension questions to make sure students understand the timeline contents.
If you missed the link above, here it is again.
Teaching Idea #5 – Should People have Built the Hindenburg Debate
Have students debate or write down the pros and cons of building the Hindenburg. The Hindenburg Disaster Activities Handout includes a short list of pros and cons.
Teaching Idea #6 – Resources from the Author
ACTIVITIES
TEACHING RESOURCES
See the product that inspired this post.
I Survived the Hindenburg Disaster, 1937 includes vocabulary practice, comprehension questions, constructed response writing, and skill practice.
