Skip to main content

Lesson Plan, Video, Primary Source :

Lesson Plan, Video, Primary Source Actress Anna May Wong

  • Grade Level K-5th Grade
  • Time Period 1930 - 1949
Open Resource (opens in new tab)

Introduction

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.

Lesson Objectives
Students will be able to:

  • Identify the contributions of Anna May Wong
  • Explain how Anna May Wong impacted the entertainment industry

This lesson can be completed in one instructional session or over a period of 1-2 weeks.

Essential Questions

  • Who is Anna May Wong? Why is she famous?

  • What are some of the challenges Anna May Wong faced? How did she overcome them?

  • How did Anna May Wong make a difference in the entertainment industry?

  • How does Anna May Wong inspire others? How does she inspire you?

  • Why is it important to learn about Anna May Wong? Why is her work and legacy important?

  • Why is representation important?