A Separate Peace Webquest A Separate Peace is a novel that may be difficult to understand since it is set at a private boys' boarding school during World War II. Obviously, none of us were alive during World War II, so we need to research background information to make it easier for us to relate to what the characters experience. The novel deals with the relationship of two best friends, Gene and Finny, who share a brotherly bond; however, their friendship has many complications and obstacles that make it difficult for the reader to understand at times. The issues that plague the boys' relationship at home can be seen as a symbol of the violent war taking place overseas.
In order to fully appreciate Gene and Finny's relationship, we need to understand what the United States was like during WWII. Understanding the culture of the time period and life of high school soldiers will also help you appreciate the environment in which Gene, Finny, and their friends experience at the a fictional prep school, Devon.
Answer questions in complete sentences (incorporate the question stem) Activity 1: World War II-link Questions: 1. What were two major causes of World War II? 2. How did the United States become involved in World War II? 3. Who are the three main Axis powers? Who are the three main Allies? 4. Who are the Big Three powers? 5. What is D-Day? When and where did it occur? 6. What does the home front refer to? What is happening on the American home front during the war? 7. Why did the United States become involved in the war? What was that date that the U.S. entered WWII?
Activity II: Culture of the 1940s-link Questions: 8. How and why is art and architecture changing in the United States? 9. What important issues are authors writing about in this decade? 10. How is the war impacting fashion at this time? 11. Who is Rosie the Riveter and what does she stand for? 12. What is the baby boom? How will this phenomenon affect the future in America? 13. The radio is a very important device to Americans during this time. What are some reasons for this? 14. Why are professional sports encouraged to continue as the war wages on? 15. How are enemies of the United States portrayed in the latest movies?
16. Read Article 1: Choose a passage from the article and respond. 17. Read Article 2 : What types of things become the focus of school and education during the 1940s at Exeter? Why? 18. Article 3: What was the purpose of the Summer Sessions and the Anticipatory Program? 19. Read Article 4: Choose a passage from the article and respond.