Black Panthers Lesson Plan

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.7

Integrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.5

Describe how a text presents information (e.g., sequentially, comparatively, causally).

• Before discussing the Black Panthers, it's imperative students understand the idea of nationalism.
• Ask students to write a definition of nationalism in their own words
• Allow students to share their response
• Tell students nationalism is defined as significant pride in where their ancestry originated.
• Ask students to brainstorm five things that make them proud about the heritage and culture and allow them to share. Encourage them to share why they are proud.
• Next, distribute printed copies of the Black Panthers: Definition & History and require students to read independently or take turns reading a loud in class.
• Have students demonstrate their understanding of the article by assigning the lesson quiz

• After students have read the lesson, place them in groups of three to four and assign each group one of the following topics:
  • Do you think the Black Panther were successful in tackling racism and discrimination? Why or why not?
  • What was the purpose of social programs? Did the Black Panther social programs further segregate the races or provide a real benefit to the African American community? Explain.
  • Do you think the federal government had the right to use illegal tactics to infiltrate the Black Panthers? Why or why not?
• Allow students to discuss their responses.
• Afterwards distribute construction paper to each group and assign the following years:
  • 1960's - How the Black Panthers started, their promotion and programs
  • 1970's - Success of the Black Panthers programs and problems in the organization
  • 1980's - The fall of the Black Panthers, reasons and affects
• Tell students they are going to use the information in the article and additional research to construct a timeline about the Black Panthers.
• Distribute glue sticks and markets. Allow students to use technology for research and print appropriate visuals for their time period to paste on the timeline.
• Encourage them to research information about the Black Panther leaders to include as well.
• After each group has completed their timelines, find a creative way to hang them on the wall or board and allow each group to present their findings.
• Reconvene the class and ask them to reflect on the presentations.

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