Simulation involves students creating a smaller-scale version of a real-life situation through role playing, materials manipulation, or computer interaction. As part of a WWII unit, one high school class conducted a "Truman trial" simulation where students researched and took on roles like the president, lawyers, and jurors to critically examine Truman's decision to drop atomic bombs on Japan. The simulation benefited students by piquing their interest in WWII and requiring them to think critically and synthesize information through their roles in the trial.

1. Simulation As an Instructional Strategy in High School Classrooms

2. Simulation Simulation in the classroom involves students creating a real-life situation on a smaller scale Simulation may involve role playing, creation of dialog, creative manipulation of materials, or computer interaction Simulation can involve the entire class or can be used by small groups

3. Advantages versus Disadvantages

4. Classroom Application at High School Level As part of a unit on WWII, students engage in an in-depth analysis of President Truman’s decision to use the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki by conducting a “Truman Trial” in the classroom in which jurors will decide if Truman was justified in his decision. Students are assigned roles including: presiding judge, President Truman, lawyers for both sides, jurors, civilians, military experts, and reporters. Students are required to research WWII and the decision to use the atomic bomb. Students are required to think critically about the motivations, consequences, and possible outcomes of utilizing AND not utilizing the atomic bomb.

5. Truman Trial Students are expected to research their roles to gain an understanding of that person’s motivation and perspective Students are expected to create dialog for their roles Students are expected to work with their team to come up with a strategy for the trial

6. Truman Trial Benefits The simulation trial is an extremely effective way to garner student interest in the causes, events, and consequences of WWII. The simulation trial provides students with an opportunity to utilize higher level thinking including: analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. The simulation trial provides students with a very hands-on, memorable learning experience.