Teacher Toolbox
The Teacher Toolbox resources are designed to support educators in a wide range of learning environments. New to our materials?—Start here! Spread the love
Overview
Big Sonia presents an engaging first-person story to help your students understand the impact of the Holocaust. Explore Antisemitism, the Holocaust, Film Literacy and more with these lesson plans.
Literary Connection
Many educators pair this film with Night by Elie Wiesel.
Where to Watch
The Big Sonia Educational Toolkit and Institutional Licence is available directly from the filmmakers. It includes Public Performance Rights (PPR) to host a screening at your institution, as well as a 2 DVD set with closed captions that contain a 93 minute feature version of the film, 45 minute educational version for classrooms, and 4 breakout videos.
Big Sonia is streaming on Vimeo.
Curriculum Guide
-
An Introduction to the Holocaust in Poland
Subject: History, Holocaust Education, Social Studies, U.S. History
Lesson Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
-
Getting to Know the Real Sonia
Subject: English Language Arts, Film Literacy, Media Literacy
Lesson Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
-
Learning from the Past: An Oral History Assignment
Subject: English Language Arts, History, Holocaust Education, Social Studies, U.S. History
Lesson Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
-
Viewing a Documentary Film
Subject: Film Literacy, Media Literacy, Social Studies
Lesson Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
-
Maladaptive Stress Response and Intergenerational Trauma
Subject: Health, Psychology
Lesson Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Antisemitism Today
Antisemitism Today, revised in 2023, is a lesson exploring the rise of antisemitism within the context of white supremacy. It is a powerful resource for Anti-Bias Education and Holocaust Education. Appropriate for Social Studies, Civics, Current Events, Government classes, etc.
This lesson was created as part of our Schindler’s List curriculum, and also works as a standalone lesson. If you use this lesson without that film, advise learners to skip film-related questions.
Group Discussion Facilitation Guidelines
These tips can help you create safe space for classroom engagement on the themes and subjects of this film.
Glossary of Film Terms
The Glossary of Film Terms is useful for the Film Literacy lessons that are part of this curriculum guide.
Sustainable Development Goals
Journeys in Film supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Learn more about teaching with SDGs. This curriculum guide connects to the following UN SDGs:You may also like...
Civics and Civic Engagement Lessons – New Resources!
These Civics and Civic Engagement Lessons are great for civics, government, and social studies classes. Additional resources for teaching with these films are available...
Women’s History Lessons – New Resources!
Our Women’s History Lessons and resources are great for English Language Arts, Film Literacy, Government, Social Studies, STEM, Women’s Studies classes, and more. Additional...
Defiant Requiem
Defiant Requiem is a powerful film for teaching about the Holocaust and World War II history. “One of the major themes… is courage.” — Learn...
Schindler’s List
Schindler’s List is a powerful tool for social studies classes teaching Holocaust Education and World War Two history. This Oscar-winning film is also great for...
Windows and Mirrors
This activity encourages learners to engage with a balanced variety of text and media perspectives. The activity also builds belonging and class community by...
Join Our Community
Receive the latest updates on new educational resources, upcoming films, and exclusive insights into how film can transform teaching and learning.
No spam. Just free teaching resources. We do not share or sell your data. View Privacy Policy