About This Lesson
This lesson is based on the National Register of Historic Places registration file "USS Arizona Wreck" (with photographs) and other materials from the park. It was written by John Vierra, Jr., park ranger, USS Arizona Memorial. TwHP is sponsored, in part, by the Cultural Resources Training Initiative and Parks as Classrooms programs of the National Park Service. This lesson is one in a series that brings the important stories of historic places into the classrooms across the country.
Where it fits into the curriculum
This lesson could be used in American history units on World War II or in courses dealing more generally with war and conflict. Students will better understand the logistics of the Japanese attack, the Arizona's destruction, and the significance of the Memorial to the people of the United States.
Time period: Modern America
Relevant United States History Standards for Grades 5-12
Relevant Curriculum Standards for Social Studies
Find your state's social studies and history standards for grades Pre-K-12
Objectives for students
1) To describe the destruction at Pearl Harbor, the sinking of the USS Arizona, and the consequent loss of life.
2) To explain the important role of the USS Arizona as part of the Pacific Fleet.
3) To explain the significance of the USS Arizona Memorial and other war memorials.
4) To determine the impact of World War II on their own community.
Materials for students
The readings and maps listed below either can be used directly on the computer or can be printed out, photocopied and distributed to students. The photographs appear twice: in a low-resolution version with associated questions and alone in a high-resolution, full-page version.
1) Three maps showing the Japanese deployment and targets;
2) Two readings about the attack on Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial;
3) Two charts showing casualties of the attack; and
4) Five photos of the USS Arizona and the Memorial.
Visiting the Park
The visitor center and the USS Arizona are located on the Pearl Harbor
Navy Base and are operated and maintained by the National Park Service. The visitor center is located on the shoreline overlooking Pearl Harbor
directly off State Highway 99 (Kamehameha Highway), about a 45-minute drive west of Waikiki. The visitor center is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's days. For further information, visit the park web pages.