Project a blank slide or write on the board: "When you hear 'Germany' and 'early 20th century,' what comes to mind?" Allow students to brainstorm individually or in small pairs for 2-3 minutes. Ask a few students to share their ideas, noting them on the board. (e.g., WWI, Treaty of Versailles, economic struggles, art, science). Connect their ideas to the pre-World War II era.

Begin with the Hitler's Ascent Slide Deck (Slide 1).
Teacher Script: "Today, we're going to explore a critical and challenging period in history: how Adolf Hitler rose to power in Germany. This isn't just about one man; it's about a series of complex events, societal conditions, and decisions that allowed an authoritarian regime to take hold. Why is it important to study this? Because understanding the past helps us understand the present and shape the future. It teaches us about the fragility of democracy and the dangers of unchecked power."
Transition to Slide 2 to introduce the lesson objective.

Distribute the Vocabulary Worksheet: Road to Power.
Teacher Script: "Before we dive deeper, let's establish some key terms that will help us understand this period. These words are essential for grasping the complexities of Hitler's rise."
Go through the vocabulary terms on the worksheet, explaining each one. Students should write down the definitions. Encourage questions and provide examples. (Slide 3 on the Hitler's Ascent Slide Deck can be used to display terms or for reference).

Continue with the Hitler's Ascent Slide Deck (Slides 4-8).
Guide students through the slides, explaining each factor contributing to Hitler's rise:
* The Aftermath of WWI & Treaty of Versailles: Discuss humiliation, economic burden, and resentment.
* Weimar Republic's Struggles: Explain its perceived weakness, political instability, and inability to solve economic crises.
* Economic Depression (Great Depression): Focus on hyperinflation, unemployment, and desperation.
* Propaganda & Charisma: Analyze how Hitler used powerful speeches and imagery to appeal to people's fears and hopes.
* Political Violence & Intimidation: Discuss the role of the SA and silencing opposition.
Encourage student participation by asking questions like: "How did the Treaty of Versailles create an environment ripe for extremism?" or "What emotions do you think Hitler's speeches tapped into?"

Facilitate a classroom discussion using the prompts from Hitler's Ascent Discussion Prompts.
Teacher Script: "Now that we've covered the main factors, let's think critically about them. What do you think was the most significant factor in Hitler's rise to power, and why?"
Encourage students to support their answers with evidence and to consider counter-arguments. Guide the discussion to explore the interconnectedness of these factors.

Distribute the Cool Down: Warning Signs.
Teacher Script: "To wrap up our lesson, I want you to reflect on what we've discussed today. Think about the conditions and events that allowed Hitler to come to power. What 'warning signs' or lessons can we take from this period that are still relevant today?"
Students should complete the cool-down individually. Collect their responses as an exit ticket.