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Lesson Plan, Video, Activity :

Lesson Plan, Video, Activity Ethnic Studies - The Fight to Teach Our Stories

  • Grade Level 6th-12th Grade
  • Time Period 1950 - 1989
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Introduction

This lesson focuses on the birth of Ethnic Studies through the two longest student strikes in the country’s history, led by youth of color forming the Third World Liberation Front (TWLF) at San Francisco State University and University of California, Berkeley.
Learning Objectives:
Students will:

  • Understand the strikes’ causes, methods, and the resistance mounted by the schools
  • Explore how educational experiences may be shaped by the addition of ethnic studies
  • Research authors from diverse backgrounds and synthesize ways in which their work can supplement their existing curriculum

Essential Questions

  • Why were these students questioning whether their own education was failing them?

  • Do you think education has similar failings today? If so, how?

  • How did the Third World Liberation Front (TWLF) students achieve their goals? Do you think that students today could help orchestrate this type of change?

  • How and why did different groups come together in solidarity?

  • Do you think the strike was worth it for the students? Why or why not? What is your main take-away from this documentary segment?

  • Do you think your classes, and your school encourage you and help you figure out who you are, and teach the diverse story of your ancestors and your peoples?