The+Wall+-+Reinforcing+Activity


 * Multiple Perspectives/Writing letters to Vietnam Veterans **

Students probably won’t know much about the Vietnam War and no information is given in this book; however, this book shows the lasting impact on families and friends. It’s from the perspective of a little boy who lost his Grandfather in the war. He doesn’t understand everything, quite like the kids who would be reading this book.

Pose these questions to students (these could be in the form of an organizer): Give students the opportunity to do some research about the Vietnam War. This should be controlled by the teacher. The website [|http://thewall-usa.com] would be useful for students to explore because it allows you to search the actual names on the wall (it might be interesting to look for family names). They can also view age appropriate images, read information about the memorial, and even read about women in the war. After students have done some research, arrange for them to write letters to different Vietnam Veterans. They can write about what they learned, why they think it is important to know about the war and the memorial, and anything else you deem appropriate.
 * We were able to see the story from the little boy’s point of view. How did he feel?
 * Who was the man in the wheel chair and the army shirt? How do you think he felt about the wall?
 * What do you think the old man and woman were thinking about while they were crying by the wall?
 * How do you think the father’s point of view was different than his son’s?
 * Why did a group of school girls come to visit the wall if they didn’t know anyone who had died?
 * What kinds of things did you feel while you listened to the little boy’s story?
 * Do you know anyone who lost their lives in the line of duty?

Additional Standards - Citizenship Rights and Responsibilities