Lesson by Maria Miraballes
Essay by Geraldo L. Cadava, Northwestern University
Grade Level: 7–12
Number of Class Periods: 5
Primary Theme: Latina/Latino History
The objective of the unit is to have students recognize the economic, social, and political challenges faced by Latinas and Latinos throughout the United States from the 1930s through the 1960s, as well as the triumphs they achieved. Over the course of the five lessons the students will analyze primary sources that include court documents, speeches, and policy statements as well as visuals such as photographs and artwork reflecting the experiences of men and women who fought for equal economic, social, and political treatment in the United States. Students will then write an argumentative written response evaluating the challenges that led to the civil rights movement as well as the achievements Latinos and Latinas made during this time period.
Lesson Plan Author: Maria Miraballes
Additional Research by: José A. Gregory
Historical Background Scholar: Geraldo L. Cadava, Northwestern University
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.8.1: Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.8.1: Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of how key events or ideas develop over the course of a text.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH-10.4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary describing political, social or economic aspects of history/social science.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources, connecting insights gained from specific details to an understanding of the text as a whole.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including analyzing how an author uses and refines the meaning of a key term over the course of a text.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.6: Evaluate authors’ differing points of view on the same historical event or issue by assessing the authors’ claims, reasoning, and evidence.