Social Studies, United States History

Grade 1- 3

Objective

Students learn about famous African Americans.

Directions

Discuss with students the origins of African American history month. In 1926, a scholar named Carter Woodson felt that African Americans did not know about the achievements of their collective past. He instituted Negro History Week as a time to learn about and celebrate these past achievements. In 1976, this celebration became a month-long one, and is seen as a time to reflect on achievements and contributions that may still be too little known.
Ask the students to define prejudice and explain what it means to them. Talk about some reasons people might be prejudiced (fear, ignorance, echoing parents' sentiments, etc.). Discuss ways that people can overcome their prejudices--learn about others, discuss fears, cooperate with others, etc.
Introduce to them some of the famous African Americans found in the minibook. Discuss with them many of the obstacles that these famous African Americans had to overcome, and the differences that they made to the world.
Distribute the activity pages and allow students to make their own minibooks.

Resources

• African Americans Minibook activity pages
• scissors
• stapler