Book, Article Notable Asian Americans
- Grade Level 3rd-5th Grade
Introduction
These materials highlight the achievements and contributions of notable Asian Americans across diverse fields, emphasizing their impact on American history, culture, and society. Students learn about the power of individuals to create change and inspire future generations.
BOOKS
Awesome Asian Americans: 20 Stars Who Made America Amazing by Phil Amara, Oliver Chine, and Juan Calle
Asian-Americans Who Inspire Us by Analiza Quiroz Wolf
ARTICLES
Zinn Ed Project: “Asian Americans in the People’s History of the United States”
NBC News: “Why there isn’t a single Asian player in the Baseball Hall of Fame”
Chicago Bears: "5 Things You May Not Know About Sean Desai," Chicago Bears Defensive Coordinator
The American Bazaar: “Chicago Bears Promote Indian American Sean Desai as Defensive Coordinator”
The American Bazaar: “Meet the Top 7 Indian American CEOs in Corporate America”
CNN Business: Opinion: “9 Reasons the Indian CEO Keeps Coming to the Rescue”
RESOURCES
Bookriot: “Books about AAPI Athletes: 12 Titles for Kids, Teens, and Adults”
SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES
Celebrating Achievements
Objective: Highlight the contributions of notable Asian Americans in various fields.
Activity: Create a “Hall of Heroes” classroom display. Each student selects one individual from the books or articles, researches their achievements, and creates a poster or digital presentation to share with the class. Include images, quotes, and key milestones.
Timeline of Impact
Objective: Understand the historical and contemporary significance of Asian American contributions.
Activity: Construct a classroom timeline featuring notable events and achievements by individuals like Sean Desai, corporate leaders, and others mentioned in the resources. Students can research and place these events in context, explaining how they influenced society.
Profiles of Inspiration
Objective: Analyze the traits and decisions that led to success for individuals featured in the resources.
Activity: Host a “Who Inspires Me” writing workshop. Students select a notable Asian American, write a short biography focusing on their challenges and triumphs, and explain how that individual inspires them. Share writings in a class gallery walk.
Essential Questions
How does the legacy of earlier groups and individuals influence later generations? Can an individual make a difference?

