Unit 10 3-5: Learning Plan

Content Background:

• Paul Robeson was born in 1898 and became one of the most well-known actors and singers of his time. However, his most important work was his fight for civil rights. He used his fame to speak out against injustice and racism, and he was known for his powerful speeches and performances that supported equality and human rights.
• Background Information for Teacher

Learning Activities:

1. Do Now:
   1. Ask students: What does it mean to fight for justice? Have students share their ideas with the class.
2. Introduction to Jigsaw Activity:
   1. Explain that the class will learn about Paul Robeson by reading three different books, each focusing on a different part of his life. Students will work in groups, each reading a different book, and then share their findings with the rest of the class.
3. Jigsaw Group Assignments:
   1. Group 1: Will focus on Paul Robeson using the book “Grandpa Stops a War: A Paul Robeson Story” by Susan Robeson.
   2. Group 2: Will focus on Paul Robeson using the book “Paul Robeson” by Eloise Greenfield.
   3. Group 3: Will focus on Paul Robeson using “Outspoken Paul Robeson” by Carole Boston Weatherford.
   4. Each group will read their assigned book, identify 3-4 key events or accomplishments in Robeson’s life, and take notes.
4. Group Discussions and Sharing:
   1. After reading, each group will discuss their book and decide on the most important events. They will then share their key events with the class, and the events will be written on the board.
5. Independent Timeline Creation:
   1. Using the events from all three groups, students will create a timeline of Paul Robeson’s life. The timeline should include at least 5 key events, such as:
      1. His birth and early education.
      2. His acting and singing career.
      3. His famous speeches or activism moments.
      4. His contributions to the civil rights movement.
      5. His later years.
   2. Encourage students to add illustrations to each point in the timeline to show how Robeson made an impact.
6. Reflection:
   1. Ask students to write a short reflection answering the question: What did you learn from Paul Robeson’s life about standing up for what is right? They should include examples from the timeline and text.
7. Closure:
   1. Have a brief class discussion where students share their reflections. Reinforce the idea that Paul Robeson used his talents and fame to fight for justice and inspire others, and that anyone can make a difference by standing up for what is right.

Resources:

• Books:
  • Grandpa Stops a War: A Paul Robeson Story by Susan Robeson
    • Read Aloud Video
  • Outspoken Paul Robeson by Carole Boston Weatherford
• Art supplies for timeline creation: paper, markers, crayons.
• Discussion prompts: Visual aids of Paul Robeson, key moments from his life, and civil rights movements he supported