The Declaration of Independence
6-8
1
The Attack on Pearl Harbor
Lesson Details
Grade Level
9-12
Duration (minutes)
1
Summary
A grade 9-12 U.S. History and social studies lesson covering the attack on Pearl Harbor — the buildup of tension with Japan, the attack itself, its devastating toll, and the U.S. response that brought America into World War II.
Student Worksheet: The Attack on Pearl Harbor
Teacher Note: Students can watch the video lesson above and answer the questions. Click the “Teacher Answer Key” dropdown below when you are ready to review the solutions!
Key Concepts:
• The Buildup: Japan’s expansion across Asia and the U.S. oil embargo created rising tension.
• The Attack: On December 7, 1941, Japan launched a surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor.
• The Toll: Nearly 20 ships and hundreds of aircraft were damaged or destroyed, and over 2,400 Americans were killed.
• The Response: Congress declared war on Japan, bringing the U.S. into World War II.
Instructions: Read each question carefully and write your answer in the space provided.
- Question 1: Why did the United States impose an oil embargo on Japan?
- Question 2: When did the attack on Pearl Harbor happen, and how long did it last?
- Question 3: Why did Japanese leaders believe a surprise attack was their best option?
- Question 4: What did President Roosevelt call December 7, 1941?
- Question 5: What was the immediate result of the attack on Pearl Harbor for the United States?
Click to reveal Teacher Answer Key
1. To oppose Japan’s aggressive expansion across Asia and threaten to halt its military machine
2. December 7, 1941; it lasted about two hours
3. They believed a swift knockout blow against the American fleet was their only option to secure dominance in the Pacific
4. “A date which will live in infamy”
5. Congress declared war on Japan, ending American isolationism and bringing the U.S. into World War II
Disclaimer: This worksheet was generated with AI assistance based on original video content. It is intended for educational reference only. Teachers are encouraged to review and adjust questions to fit their curriculum standards before classroom use.
🎯 Extension Activity: Have students write a short journal entry as if they were an American reading the news on December 8, 1941, describing how they might have felt hearing President Roosevelt's speech.