This lesson was developed as part of the Louisiana Department of Education Content Standards.

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This lesson is intended to develop students' understanding of America in the 1950s and 1960s.  The Civil Rights Movement was at its prime during this period and many prominent African Americans took stand for the rights they believed in.  Also, this lesson was developed to increase computer skills and literacy.   

Learners

This lesson is ideal for an eleventh grade American History class.  It can be altered and used in other secondary subjects such as English.

Prior to beginning this lesson, students need to have a general idea of the struggles and oppressions that African Americans have faced up to this time period.  They need to understand that their America did not always have a justice system that was fair to all.  Explaining and over viewing such topics as Jim Crowe laws, the grandfather clause, separate but equal, Plessy vs. Fergusson and Brown vs. Topeka would benefit students going into this lesson.

Social Studies Standards/ Objectives Addressed:
The Learner will:
  • Identify the primary leaders of the Civil Rights Movement and describe major issues and accomplishments (H-1B-H15)
  • Contrast past and present events or ideas in U.S. history, demonstrating awareness of differing political, social, or economic context (H-1A-H1)
  • Evaluate various means of achieving equality of political rights (e.g., civil disobedience vs. violent protest) (H-1B-H15)

 Skills encouraged by this lesson include creative thinking, creative production, creative writing, and creative role playing.