They Were Superb: The 442nd Japanese-American Unit in World War II and Self-Sacrifice

In this lesson, students will learn about the self-sacrifice of the Japanese-American 442nd Regimental Combat Team who fought in World War II. They will also determine ways in which they can sacrifice to help others.

Walk-In-The-Shoes Questions
As you read, imagine you are the protagonist.

• What challenges are you facing?
• What fears or concerns might you have?
• What may prevent you from acting in the way you ought?

Observation Questions

• Who were the 442^nd Regimental Combat Team? Why was their role in World War II significant?
• What was the purpose of the 442^nd?
• What did the members of the 442^nd stand to lose while serving their country? Why did they take part in the war?

Discussion Questions
Discuss the following questions with your students.

• What is the historical context of the narrative?
• What historical circumstances presented a challenge to the protagonist?
• How and why did the individual exhibit a moral and/or civic virtue in facing and overcoming the challenge?
• How did the exercise of the virtue benefit civil society?
• How might exercise of the virtue benefit the protagonist?
• What might the exercise of the virtue cost the protagonist?
• Would you react the same under similar circumstances? Why or why not?
• How can you act similarly in your own life? What obstacles must you overcome in order to do so?

• Students will examine the actions of the 442^nd Regimental Combat Team and their self-sacrifice.
• Students will apply their knowledge of self-sacrifice to their own lives.
• Students will determine ways in which they can sacrifice in order to help others.