The Cold War - A Divided Europe

Lesson 2: A Divided Europe – The Iron Curtain (KS3 History)
The Resource Nest

This lesson explores how Europe became divided after the Second World War. Students investigate the creation of the ‘Iron Curtain’, examine how the USA and USSR extended their influence across Europe, and evaluate the impact of early Cold War strategies such as containment and post‑war rebuilding efforts. Includes an accompanying worksheet.

Learning Objectives

• Investigate how Europe was split, including the ‘Iron Curtain’
• Understand how the USA and USSR extended their influence
• Evaluate the impact of containment and rebuilding efforts
• Explain how these actions deepened Cold War divisions

Success Criteria
Students can:

• Describe how and why Europe was divided into East and West
• Explain how both superpowers increased their influence in different regions
• Evaluate the effectiveness and consequences of containment and rebuilding policies
• Make links between early Cold War actions and long‑term global division