I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings Lesson Plan

A Person of the People

Kind of Activity:

Classwide Discussion

Objective:

Students will consider the merits and mistakes of using celebrities as representatives or symbols.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.1.C, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.1.D

Structure:

The chapter about Joe Louis’ fight acts as a bridge between Maya’s small town environment and the larger United States. It is clear in this chapter that for many Black Americans, he was a symbol of Black power, strength, and excellence. Clear connections were made between Louis’ failures during the fight, and the violence pedestrian Black people experience in America. In this activity, students will discuss...