The aim of this lesson is to examine why the Soviet Union invaded Czechoslovakia in August 1968 and consider the consequences for Soviet control of Eastern Europe.
Students learn about the Prague Spring and the reforms introduced by Alexander Dubček, including greater freedom of speech and the relaxation of censorship. The lesson investigates why Brezhnev and other Soviet leaders became concerned about these changes, why Warsaw Pact troops invaded and how the Soviet Union re-established control. Students also consider the significance of the Brezhnev Doctrine.
Students begin by assessing why Alexander Dubček introduced reforms in Czechoslovakia and how the Prague Spring aimed to give people greater freedom.
They then analyse the reforms and decide whether they were social, political or economic, before judging which posed the greatest threat to Soviet control and stability in Czechoslovakia.
Students also examine Dubček’s plans for reform and answer challenging questions using the information provided. They then evaluate the Soviet response, including the invasion of Czechoslovakia in August 1968, through a series of decision-making activities and differentiated source analysis.
The lesson concludes by assessing the impact of the Brezhnev Doctrine. Students consider its consequences for Czechoslovakia, relations between the satellite states, superpower relations between the USA and the Soviet Union, and the international reputation of the USA following its response to the crisis.
The lesson is enquiry based, with a key question using a lightbulb introduced at the start and revisited throughout this and subsequent lessons to show the progress of learning.
The resource includes retrieval practice, suggested teaching strategies, differentiated materials and GCSE question practice with a model answer to help students attain the highest grades.
It comes in PowerPoint format if there is a wish to adapt and change.
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