All Aboard the Underground Railroad

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Students role-playing as slaves come to the next stop on their journey to freedom.

Students will develop an appreciation and understanding for the trials and tribulations slaves encountered as they risked their lives for freedom abound the Underground Railroad. Students will research the experience and culminate their learning by participating in a simulation.

OBJECTIVE

• Students will analyze the contributions of the historical figure Harriet Tubman.  
• Students will demonstrate an understanding of life on the Underground Railroad by presenting information.
• Students will understand the perils and hardships of slaves by participating in a simulation.

LESSONS FOR THIS UNIT
Lesson 1: Train to Freedom
Lesson 2: Riding the Underground Railroad

REPRODUCIBLES
Harriet Tubman Presentation (PDF)
(PDF)
Railroad Car Template (PDF)
Train Engine Template (PDF)
Biography Cards (PDF)

Reflection Sheet

CULMINATING ACTIVITY

Students will participate in an Underground Railroad simulation. They will take on the roles as conductors, slaves, abolitionists, and slave hunters. Students will gain an understanding of what a slave experienced on the dangerous journey.

Marissa Ochoa is a 3rd grade teacher in her seventh year of teaching. She was chosen District Teacher of the year and was a top ten finalist for San Diego County Teacher of the Year in 2007.

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