Lesson Plan

• Describe the causes, key events and outcomes of the 1905 Revolution.
• Explain how World War I intensified social unrest leading to the 1917 revolutions.
• Analyse the impact of the Civil War, NEP and Stalin’s economic policies on Soviet society.
• Evaluate the role of political repression and foreign‑policy decisions in shaping the USSR by 1941.
• Compare Russia’s transformation from an autocracy to a world super‑power between 1905 and 1941.

• Projector and screen for timeline slide
• Printed handout with Five‑Year Plan summary table
• Primary‑source excerpts (Bloody Sunday telegram, Lenin’s decree, Stalin’s speech)
• Whiteboard and markers
• Large map of Europe (1914‑1941) for border changes
• Exit‑ticket slips

Begin with a striking image of the 1905 Bloody Sunday crowd to hook students. Ask what they already know about why the Russian Empire was unstable in the early 20th century. Outline today’s success criteria: students will trace the chain of events from 1905 to 1941 and assess their long‑term impact.

1. Do‑now (5’) – Quick write: “What would you do if your government ignored your grievances?” Collect responses.
2. Mini‑lecture with timeline slide (10’) – Overview of 1905‑1941 key events, highlighting causes and consequences.
3. Source analysis stations (15’) – Small groups examine primary excerpts and answer guided questions.
4. Think‑pair‑share (5’) – Discuss how World War I set the stage for 1917 revolutions.
5. Interactive map activity (10’) – Plot territorial changes and discuss foreign‑policy moves (Rapallo, Molotov‑Ribbentrop).
6. Whole‑class synthesis (10’) – Teacher facilitates a cause‑effect chain on the board linking revolutions, civil war, NEP, Stalin’s policies, and WWII.
7. Formative check (5’) – Exit ticket: “One way the 1905‑41 period shaped modern Russia.”

Recap the major turning points and ask a few students to share their exit‑ticket responses. Emphasize how each stage built toward the Soviet Union’s role in World II. Assign homework: read a short article on the Great Purge and prepare a 2‑minute reflection for the next lesson.