Student Activities for Underground Railroad
Discussion Questions for Flight to Freedom
- What was the Underground Railroad?
- Are the men and women who participated in the Underground Railroad considered heroes? Why or why not?
- How did farmers and other common people change slavery laws?
Flight to Freedom: The Story of the Underground Railroad Summary
The Underground Railroad maintained such high secrecy that little evidence can be found. The Underground Railroad was a secret line of farms leading from the slaves states to Canada. These "stations" were organized by hundreds of men and women who did not believe in slavery. Slaves were provided food, clothing, and a place to rest during daylight. The "conductors" of the railroad were daring and resourceful; they often had to participate in a ruse in order to avoid suspicion from slave owners.
For free slaves, life was difficult; they experienced poverty and faced the harsh cold and sickness. As the number of slaves diminished, additional laws were made and rewards were posted. Even during the war, the Underground Railroad continued and later revealed itself as the Aid Commission to begin rehabilitation for runaway slaves.
How Tos about Flight to Freedom: The Story of the Underground Railroad
Engage students with a hands-on map activity about the Underground Railroad
Help students visualize routes and geography by creating interactive maps together. Use printed maps or digital tools to plot key stations, paths to freedom, and important cities. This activity encourages deeper understanding and discussion about the risks and challenges faced during escape.
Discuss the importance of secrecy and code words on the Underground Railroad
Explore real-life communication strategies used by conductors and station masters. Share examples of code words, signals, and symbols that protected those involved. Invite students to invent their own codes to better grasp the concept of clandestine operations.
Connect historical empathy with a creative writing exercise
Encourage students to write a journal entry from the perspective of a conductor or person seeking freedom. Prompt students to describe emotions, fears, and hopes to build empathy and personal connection to history.
Incorporate visual storytelling with storyboard creation
Guide students to make storyboards illustrating a journey on the Underground Railroad. Highlight key events, choices, and helpers to reinforce understanding of the challenges and bravery involved.
Facilitate a class debate on heroism and resistance
Split students into groups to discuss whether conductors and allies were heroes. Encourage use of evidence from the text and respectful debate skills to foster critical thinking and deeper analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flight to Freedom: The Story of the Underground Railroad
What is the Underground Railroad and how did it help enslaved people escape?
The Underground Railroad was a secret network of farms, safe houses, and individuals who helped enslaved people escape to freedom, often to the North or Canada. Conductors guided fugitives, providing food, shelter, and guidance along the way.
Who were the key figures involved in the Underground Railroad?
Hundreds of men and women, including farmers and activists who opposed slavery, risked their safety as conductors and stationmasters. Famous figures include Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass, but many everyday people played vital roles.
How can I teach the story of the Underground Railroad to my students?
Use nonfiction texts like Flight to Freedom, interactive activities, and discussion questions that encourage students to explore the history, risks, and impact of the Underground Railroad. Supplement lessons with creative projects and group discussions.
Why is the Underground Railroad considered a crucial moment in the abolition of slavery?
The Underground Railroad showed how ordinary people united against injustice, risking their lives to help others. It weakened slavery by helping people escape and inspiring reform, making it a turning point toward abolition.
What challenges did escaped slaves face after reaching freedom?
Even after escaping, freed slaves often faced poverty, harsh climates, sickness, and new laws targeting runaways. Support organizations like the Aid Commission later helped with rehabilitation and adjustment.
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