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Lesson Plan

Teach This Poem: "On Being Brought from Africa to America" by Phillis Wheatley

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This Teach This Poem: "On Being Brought from Africa to America" by Phillis Wheatley lesson plan also includes:

Phillis Wheatley's poem, "On Being Brought from Africa to America" is the focus of a lesson that asks readers to consider how the poem is a critique of slavery. Groups comprise a list of words and phrases they notice as well as questions they may have. Class members then read an article about the poem and discuss the elements that criticize slavery and religion.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Concepts
poetry analysis, poetry, african americans, famous african americans, african american history, close reading, compare and contrast, black history month, slavery, tone
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Instructional Ideas
  • After middle schoolers have listened to the song several times, provide groups with the lyrics to Marley's song "Buffalo Soldier"
  • Instructors should read the "Let's Talk" guide which offers tools for leading critical conversations
Classroom Considerations
  • A New York Times subscription is required to view Eve Ewing's poem "1773" using the provided link
  • The lesson can be used for remote or hybrid learning as well as in-class instruction
  • The Dungy essay is complex and most appropriate for high school level classes
Pros
  • Includes extension activities for grades 7 and 8 as well as activities for grades 9 through 12
Cons
  • None