Black History in America

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Students get an in-depth look into the African-American experience in this unique online activity. Through interviews, historical sketches, interactives, and the lessons provided in this teacher's guide, students learn about important individuals, study the civil rights movement and the concept of racism, and explore the history of jazz music. Culture & Change: Black History in America also includes activities that allow students to share their thoughts and feelings about topics discussed.
 
The various parts of this activity can be used together or independently. Incorporate them into your classroom or computer lab lesson.

OBJECTIVE
Students will:

1. Gain insight into African-American history from slavery to the civil rights movement
2. Learn about individual people who shaped history by reading their biographies and researching the age in which they lived
3. Understand the causes and effects of the civil rights movement in America
4. Study the history of jazz music to gain awareness of the cultural contributions made by different groups in America
5. Build nonfiction literacy skills as they read Web-based articles for details and use a timeline to obtain information
6. Apply critical thinking skills to answer questions regarding controversial events related to the civil rights movement
7. Hone writing skills through brief essay submissions or grade-appropriate research papers
8. Develop and present an oral report that includes important research points and historical facts

LESSONS FOR THIS UNIT
Lesson 1: Inventors & Trailblazers
Lesson 2: Taking a Stand with Rosa Parks
Lesson 3: Breaking Barriers with Melba Pattillo

REPRODUCIBLES
Cause & Effect Reproducible (PDF)
Organizational Outline (PDF)

SUPPORTING BOOKS

Black History Books and Resources

• Scholastic Store
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  The Scholastic Store
  	Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King This picture book biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. brings his life and the profound nature of his message to young readers through his own words, using quotes from some of his most beloved speeches to tell his life story in a simple, direct way. $15.99 books;hardcover books;picture books | Ages 4-8

  
  Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King
  Ages 4-8 $15.99
  
• Scholastic Store
• 

  The Scholastic Store
  	Rosa Fifty years after her refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama, bus, Mrs. Rosa Parks is still one of the most important figures in the American civil rights movement. This picture book tribute to Mrs. Parks is a celebration of her courageous action and the events that followed. $16.95 books;hardcover books;hardcovers | Ages 4-8

  
  Rosa
  Ages 4-8 $16.95
  

This Unit Plan supports Culture & Change: Black History in America Activities