Lesson Plan, Article, Video DREAM Act: Tereza Lee

This lesson explores the story of Tereza Lee, the first DREAMer, whose advocacy inspired the DREAM Act. Students will learn about her life as an undocumented immigrant, her accomplishments as a professional pianist, and her role in raising awareness about citizenship and immigration issues.

LESSON PLANS
WTTW: “Tereza Lee and Undocumented Asian America” - Resource includes videos, teaching guide, activities and background reading
Tereza Lee and Undocumented Asian America - The Asian American Education Project

VIDEO
PBS/World Channel: Tereza Lee’s DREAMers Act

ARTICLE
NPR: The Original DREAMer Recalls ‘All Pervasive’ Fear As An Undocumented Child

SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES
- Begin with a discussion: Introduce the concept of citizenship and ask students to share what they know about immigration and its challenges.
- Share Tereza’s story: Use the WTTW video and the NPR article to discuss Tereza’s journey as a Brazilian-born Korean American and her role in inspiring the DREAM Act.
- Key terms: Define and discuss terms like DREAM Act, undocumented immigrant, activism, and citizenship.
Activity:
- Good Citizenship Brainstorm: Ask students to create a chart of what “good” citizens do and how Tereza exemplifies these actions.
- Empathy Mapping: Have students imagine what life might be like for an undocumented immigrant child and write about the challenges and hopes they might experience.
- Reflection: Ask students to write or discuss how Tereza’s story demonstrates the impact one person can have on the lives of many.