1970'S Race, Society and Politics Through TV- The Work of Norman Lear
We examine the primary source of classic American television in the 1970's and early 1980's. What were the conversations and issues of the day? How did Norman Lear use television to encourage thought and dialog?
Amber Johnson Logan
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(89)
Star Educator
What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
US Grade 8 - 10
This is an ongoing history class that uses classic television episodes as primary resources. Our focus will be works written or produced by Norman Lear. (This class focuses on the work of Lear. Learners are encouraged to learn more about Norman Lear in the companion class- "Normal Lear- His Life in His Words".) We will draw from some of his work, including (but not limited to) "All In The Family", "The Jeffersons", "The Facts of Life" and "Good Times." This class is a good fit for learners who enjoy watching 20-25 minute long television shows in their entirety and then sharing thoughts, opinions and questions. Each class stands alone AND they all work together- classes never repeat although the themes have a repeating rhythm. In each class we will begin with historical background, scene setting, or noteworthy artistic facts. Next, we will screen the show (learners are welcome to enjoy a snack during the show!) Finally, we will have discussion and conversation. LEARNERS NEED TO HAVE OPEN CAMERAS FOR THIS PORTION. **While every episode that we will watch aired on prime time broadcast television, Norman Lear pushed the envelop with his themes and language. Learners who are very sensitive to slurs or harsh language should not enroll in this class. Also note- while some objectional language is used in the shows, our learners are expected to maintain an inclusive and welcoming environment and NOT use slurs during our class discussions. Learners who cannot do so will not be allowed to participate.** Our schedule is arranged by topic- we may deviate based on learner interest or a current event. Week of Feb 27- Race and Class Week of Mar 6- Politics Week of Mar 13- Current Events (then or now!) Week of Mar 20- Gender Issues Week of Mar 27- Award winning Ah...the 70's and 80's. Those were the days....
Learning Goals
By looking into the past we can better understand the present. Learners will practice critical thinking and expressing complex ideas in a way that is understandable, if not always agreeable.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Race/Politics/Social Issues in America are sensitive by nature. While every episode aired on broadcast network television, Learners should be prepared to hear harsh language to include slurs. Parents should also be prepared to continue discussing these sensitive topics at home and are welcome to reach out to me for help with this as needed. These shows were not created for children and parents should expect G and the occasional PG content.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
We will explore episodes from Lear's television shows made in the 1970's and 80's. To view a list of all of his works, visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norman_Lear.
When possible, episodes will be available on YouTube and available for review for free after class. However, I may also use other resources such as DVDs or streaming services which may or may not be readily available. My general preference is to provide easy access but this is not always possible.
Joined March, 2020
4.9
89reviews
Star Educator
Teacher expertise and credentials
Non-US Teaching Certificate in English to Speakers of Other Languages
Bachelor's Degree in History from Hampton University
I HAD to study history at Hampton University (B.A) and U.S. History at Southern Methodist University (M.A. abt) because I found the complex topics and dynamic issues endlessly fascinating. My education allowed me to study questions of Race, Class and Gender extensively, topics that should ALWAYS figure prominently when understanding The United States. Teaching high school and college history felt more like a prize than a job as I loved sharing our nation's struggles and stories with young learners and challenging them to think critically. I have decades of experience doing this and excel at leading conversations about racism, race relations, and people. While I am no longer in the classroom I still find opportunities to guide people through the topics and timelines of America from time to time, and this is one of those times. Teaching this topic to young people gives me hope and brings me so much happiness- our children are amazing!
As social studies is ALWAYS a conversation about the past AND the present, I will encourage and model conversation that weighs multiple perspectives. Learners should come expecting to share and hear a variety of ideas. Reviews
Live Group Class
$8
weekly1x per week
55 min
Completed by 10 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-16
1-8 learners per class
