Scholars read and discuss an essay by 12-year-old actor Lonnie Chaves about racism, paying close attention to how racism presents itself in interpersonal and institutional ways. Learners reflect on how they experience or witness racism and write an exploratory essay.

Concepts

racism, discrimination, racial profiling, Writing, Expository Writing

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Instructional Ideas

• Plan the lesson during February's Black History Month
• Repeat the sticky note activity with pupils' writing examples
• Link additional recourses on classroom devices for early finishers to explore

Classroom Considerations

• Set boundaries to create a safe environment for pupils to share their thoughts and feelings
• Requires a projection device and copies of the essay; one per learner

Pros

• The lesson features a child of similar age as your class members
• Challenges participants to show what they know about the essay-writing process

Cons

• None

Common Core

CCRA.R.1 CCRA.R.2 CCRA.R.3 CCRA.W.3 CCRA.SL.1 CCRA.SL.5 CCRA.L.3 CCRA.L.4 CCRA.L.6