Lesson Plan, Video, Primary Source Actress Anna May Wong

According to California History/Social Studies Standards, students in the second grade study “the lives of actual people who make a difference in their everyday lives and learn the stories of extraordinary people from history whose achievements have touched them, directly or indirectly.” In practice, the people studied tend to be from the dominant classes. People of color and/or people from marginalized communities are often overlooked. As such, the narrative of Asian Americans are excluded. Asian Americans have made significant contributions and lasting impacts. Anna May Wong, for example, was a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, and continues to inspire Asian Americans today. Her story, as well as those of many others, deserve to be heard.

This lesson can be completed in one instructional session or over a period of 1-2 weeks. Here are options for lesson implementation:
One instructional session: Complete Activity 2 plus Discussion Questions.
Two instructional sessions: Complete Activity 2 plus Discussion Questions and One option from Activity 4.
One week: Complete Activity 1, Activity 2 plus Discussion Questions, One option from Activity 3, One option from Activity 4, and One extension activity.