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Speaking Up for What's Right

Students will learn about Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech during the March on Washington in 1963, then create a diorama depicting it.

Lesson Plan

Supplies Needed

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  • Heavy Paper
  • Recycled Cardboard Box

Steps

  • Step 1

    In 1963, civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. gave a speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. In the speech, known as the "I Have a Dream" speech, he called for civil and economic rights and an end to racism. Ask students to read the speech or watch a video of it. Have a discussion about civil rights in the US. What were some of the restrictions placed on Black Americans at that time? How did the march factor into the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964? What other leaders collaborated with King to organize the march?

  • Step 2

    Have students form small groups to create a diorama depicting Martin Luther King Jr.'s speech at the Lincoln Memorial. One person can decorate the inside of a box to resemble the background setting. Another can create the Lincoln Memorial out of Model Magic, and another can create cut-outs of people attending the speech. Have them collaborate on writing a brief description of the event.

  • Step 3

    Have each group present their diorama. Ask them to read their description and also discuss how things have changed for the better and also what work still needs to be done.

Standards

SS: Time, Continuity, and Change: Analyze the causes and consequences of past events and developments, and place these in the context of the institutions, values and beliefs of the period in which they took place. 

SS: Time, Continuity, and Change: Understand linkages between human decisions and consequences.

SS: Power, Authority, and Governance: Develop awareness of rights and responsibilities of people, in specific contexts.  

Adaptations

Have students learn about other notable civil rights leaders, such as Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, W.E.B. Du Bois, Nelson Mandela, John Lewis, or any others.

Have students look at artwork associated with civil rights. Suggestions include "Soldiers and Students" (1962) by Jacob Lawrence, "Homage to My Young Black Sisters" (1968) by Elizabeth Catlett, "April 4, 1969" (1969) by Sam Gilliam, "The Door (Admissions Office)" (1969) by David Hammons, or any others.