Activity Overview
Hearing from a variety of different perspectives is vital to gathering a full and factual picture of history. When learning about the American Revolution, students may need teachers to provide a variety of resources. The use of diverse resources such as primary sources, videos, readings from textbooks, encyclopedias and literature can be helpful for students to gain an accurate and complete picture of the time period.
In this activity, students will create a chart that highlights the contributions and perspectives of African Americans during the American Revolution. Students will include images and text to explain at least 3 contributions or perspectives.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a chart that highlights the contributions and perspectives of African Americans during the American Revolution.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, state the contribution or perspective of an African American.
- In the description boxes, write a concise statement elaborates on that contribution.
- Create a picture for each cell using appropriate scenes, characters, or items to illustrate or symbolize each description.
Requirements: Must have.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
Hearing from a variety of different perspectives is vital to gathering a full and factual picture of history. When learning about the American Revolution, students may need teachers to provide a variety of resources. The use of diverse resources such as primary sources, videos, readings from textbooks, encyclopedias and literature can be helpful for students to gain an accurate and complete picture of the time period.
In this activity, students will create a chart that highlights the contributions and perspectives of African Americans during the American Revolution. Students will include images and text to explain at least 3 contributions or perspectives.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a chart that highlights the contributions and perspectives of African Americans during the American Revolution.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, state the contribution or perspective of an African American.
- In the description boxes, write a concise statement elaborates on that contribution.
- Create a picture for each cell using appropriate scenes, characters, or items to illustrate or symbolize each description.
Requirements: Must have.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about African Americans in the American Revolution
How to Facilitate a Class Discussion on African American Perspectives in the Revolution
Begin by preparing open-ended questions about African American experiences during the American Revolution. Encourage students to share what surprised them or what they found most interesting. This helps foster critical thinking and allows students to explore diverse viewpoints.
Prompt students to use primary sources for deeper insights
Provide students with primary sources such as letters, diary entries, or images related to African Americans in the Revolution. Ask students to analyze these materials and connect their findings to the class chart. This builds research skills and deepens understanding.
Guide students to make connections to modern history
Encourage students to draw parallels between the contributions of African Americans in the Revolution and modern examples of advocacy or leadership. Lead a discussion on how history shapes current events. This makes learning relevant and meaningful.
Encourage students to present and reflect on their charts
Have students share their charts with classmates in small groups or as a gallery walk. Prompt each student to explain one contribution or perspective they found important. This promotes confidence and communication skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about African Americans in the American Revolution
What were the contributions of African Americans during the American Revolution?
African Americans played key roles in the American Revolution as soldiers, spies, and laborers. They fought for both the Continental and British armies, seeking freedom and rights, and their efforts were significant to the outcome of the war.
How can I teach students about African American perspectives in the Revolutionary War?
Use a variety of resources like primary sources, videos, literature, and interactive activities. Encourage students to create charts or projects highlighting different contributions and viewpoints of African Americans during the era.
What is a simple classroom activity to explore African American roles in the American Revolution?
Have students create a chart showing at least three contributions or perspectives of African Americans, using images and descriptions. This visual activity helps students understand and remember key facts.
Why is it important to include multiple perspectives when teaching about the American Revolution?
Including multiple perspectives ensures students gain a complete and accurate understanding of history. It highlights the diverse roles and experiences of groups like African Americans, often left out of traditional narratives.
Where can I find primary sources about African Americans in the Revolutionary War for my class?
Look for primary sources from museums, digital archives, and educational websites. Documents, letters, and firsthand accounts are available from places like the Library of Congress and National Archives.
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