Kennedy’s Choices

Worksheet Description

This worksheet centers on the choices available to President Kennedy during the pivotal Cuban Missile Crisis. Students are tasked with identifying and listing the various options Kennedy could have pursued, alongside the advantages and disadvantages of each. A supplementary question at the bottom requires students to determine which option Kennedy ultimately chose and elucidate the reasons behind his decision. The worksheet is accentuated with a “thinking” icon, implying the emphasis on critical reasoning and contemplation.

The primary objective of this worksheet is to foster a deeper understanding of decision-making at the highest levels of governance during critical moments in history. By asking students to weigh the pros and cons of each option, the worksheet encourages them to step into the shoes of a leader and grapple with the complexities of geopolitical dilemmas. Furthermore, it promotes analytical skills, as students are not only required to identify options but also justify the chosen path. Ultimately, the exercise is designed to provide students with a holistic view of the intricacies and challenges faced by leaders during crucial junctures in world affairs.