The silent classroom
The film "The Silent Classroom" impressively shows the lives of young people in the GDR and their rebellion against the regime.
The film "The Silent Classroom" is ideal for young people in particular to engage with the history of the GDR and everyday life there, as well as for a general discussion about freedom of opinion. The authentic case can also be used to discuss current topics such as political commitment and solidarity. In this way, a historical topic can be brought into the present and pupils can better identify with it.
If you would like to show the film in Edupool, you will also find working material at the bottom of the page.
To the content
1956: During a visit to the cinema in the western part of Berlin, high school graduates Theo and Kurt see a newsreel report on the Hungarian uprising and its bloody suppression. Back at school in Stalinstadt, they tell their classmates about the shocking footage. Out of solidarity, they observe a minute's silence during class. An action with consequences: They are targeted by the GDR authorities.
FSK: from 12 yrs., age recommendation: from 14 yrs.
Class recommendation: 8th-13th grade, ideal: 9th-13th grade
Drama, historical film, Germany 2017/2018, D: Lars Kraume, 111 min.
Awards (selection): FBW rating: especially valuable
GDR. Surveillance. Solidarity. (Freedom of) opinion. Rebellion.