For a class learning about Chinese and Irish immigration in America, here's a great starting lesson plan. It has your critical thinkers examining song lyrics, the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, and a political cartoon, and finally answering a few questions to demonstrate their understanding of the sources.

Concepts

immigration, united states immigration, discrimination

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Combine with other primary sources about the Chinese Exclusion Acts (examples found here: https://www.loc.gov/rr/program/bib/ourdocs/chinese.html)
• Have your historians find other primary sources from the time period that are also relevant to the issue of immigrant discrimination

Classroom Considerations

• The original document of the Chinese Exclusion Act is difficult to read - for an easier read, use the transcript provided on the site
• You can find audio of the song 'No Irish Need Apply' by searching for it on Youtube

Pros

• Helpful primary source comparison chart provided
• Great mix of primary sources

Cons

• None

Common Core

RH.6-8.1 RH.6-8.5 RH.6-8.7