Middle School
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Students consider whether the United States is undergoing a third Reconstruction by analyzing key events, figures and movements from the past.
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In this project-based unit, scholars explore early African civilizations, analyze the history of enslavement in America, and research the impact that abolitionists made in ending enslavement.
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Students explore how composition conveys meaning imbued with the point of view of the composer. They apply this learning to explorations of local history, primary sources, poetry, and art projects.
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Units
Walking Democracy
Students explore the cultural and creative traditions that were carried northward as people migrated in the lead up to the March on Washington.
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Resource Guides
The 1619 Project Docuseries Viewing Guide
This resource serves as a viewing guide for The 1619 Project docuseries. It includes time-stamped sections, guided questions, and a topic index for each episode.
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Students examine how the legacy of slavery impacts a range of contemporary issues in Chicago.
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Activity
1619 Foundational Inquiry
An extended engagement activity to guide students through close reading and analysis of select essays from The 1619 Project.
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Units
The African and African American Experience of Slavery from Pre-Colonial Africa to the New Republic
Students investigate slavery and resistance to enslavement in West African societies, then compare the characteristics of slavery and indentured servitude in the colonies through writing and art.
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Units
Querencia & Belonging
Students use The 1619 Project and other resources to develop a sense of self and awareness of their querencias (places of belonging) while also learning about how folks have historically been othered.
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Units
Reconstruction’s Legacy
Students examine the legacy of slavery, Reconstruction, and Jim Crow legislation on America by connecting historical events with contemporary issues and centering the experiences of Black Americans.
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Units
Defenders of Democracy
Students learn about the pivotal role Black Americans continue to play as defenders of democracy, find modern-day defenders of democracy, and develop a plan to defend democracy themselves.
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Units
Art Attacks!
Participants use arts-based exercises and techniques to explore civic history and engagement. They engage with multiple texts and guided discussions, practice mindfulness and personal reflection.
