Students begin by exploring the events leading to Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor on 30 January 1933 and examining why Paul von Hindenburg believed Hitler could be safely appointed within a conservative-led government.
They consider the political calculations of leading conservatives and why they underestimated Hitler’s ambitions.
The lesson then examines the composition of Hitler’s first cabinet. Students investigate the key ministers, their political backgrounds and the balance of power within the new government, evaluating why many contemporaries believed Hitler would be constrained by experienced conservative politicians.
Students also analyse the constitutional and political obstacles facing Hitler in January 1933. Through structured activities, they assess the limitations imposed by the Weimar Constitution, the lack of a Nazi parliamentary majority and the challenges Hitler still faced in securing complete control of Germany.
The lesson concludes with source analysis and exam-style activities, allowing students to evaluate contemporary evidence and develop the analytical skills required for A Level examinations.
A gap-fill exercise consolidates key knowledge before a 3-2-1 plenary reinforces the main themes and concepts from the lesson.
An enquiry question is introduced at the start of the lesson and revisited throughout, enabling students to monitor their progress and develop a deeper understanding across the wider unit of study.
Fully planned and ready to teach, the lesson develops political analysis, source evaluation, interpretation and exam technique
Included in this lesson:
Fully editable PowerPoint
Analysis of the members and significance of Hitler’s first cabinet
Tasks evaluating the constitutional and political constraints on Hitler
Source analysis and A Level exam-style activities
Gap-fill exercise and 3-2-1 plenary to consolidate learning
Fully differentiated throughout with suggested teaching strategies
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