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This Black Genius: How Did Black Genius Help Build American Democracy? unit plan also includes:
- Black Genius (.html)
- Black Genius (.docx)
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"How did the slavery system undermine the United States' democratic principles?" This question launches a study of how the Preamble to the Declaration of Independence, Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, and Article IV, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution denied enslaved people from accessing their rights. Young social scientists examine these documents and challenges to the legal system put forth by Black Americans to gather background information. Pupils then develop a claim in response to the essential question using evidence from their readings to support their claim.
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Concepts
Instructional Ideas
- Several of the required readings are complex; some readers may need additional scaffolding to comprehend the significance of the excerpts
- Present the lesson during February's Black History Month
Classroom Considerations
- Although designed for remote learning, the lesson is appropriate for in-person learning as well
- Presumes instructors and class members are familiar with the inquiry form of instruction
Pros
- Includes a list of people class members can research for the "Taking Informed Action" section of the lesson
Cons
- None