Heart And Soul: The Story of America and African Americans History Class- Part 1
What's included
6 live meetings
3 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Students will have an optional weekly assignment tied to the chapter we are covering. Students will be encouraged to share their completed works to the classroom page, send to me privately or share at the start of each classClass Experience
US Grade 2 - 5
Each student must have a copy of the book. Students will review and discuss a new chapter each week. It is a story of hope, inspiration and courage. We will read the first half of the book, which consists of six chapters. Another class for the second half of the book will be offered on the same day/time to finish the entire book. Students will be given an assignment to go along with the chapter at the end of each class. I will introduce and possibly start the activity in class, modeling instructions and allowing time for questions. Each class will end with a jeopardy or group game that reviews materials. Students will finish assignments during the week. Students should bring them to class and will have the opportunity to share their work at the start of each class. Here is the weekly chapter breakdown for the class: 1. The Declaration of Independence 2. Slavery 3. Abolition 4. The Civil War 5. Reconstruction 6. African American's westward movement Class Structure Breakdown: 5 mins- Getting everyone into the classroom, greetings, highlight of students completed student work from previous week. 15 mins- New content material and discussion 5 mins- Introduction of weekly assignment, model, questions 10 mins- review games An additional booklist will be sent upon enrollment. The booklist will primarily be picture books and short chapter books that correlate to the chapter. No prior experience is needed for this class. This will be a gentle introduction to African American/ Black history. Part two of the course will begin approximately two weeks after part one, in most cases, the same time slot/day of the week.
Learning Goals
Students will increase their knowledge in terms of the challenges, contributions and perseverance of African-Americans in the United States.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum6 Lessons
over 6 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction and Chapter 1 - "Declaration of Independence"
Overview of the book's structure and themes.
Introduction to the narrator's voice and storytelling style.
Discussion on the founding of America and the Declaration of Independence.
The role of African Americans in the Revolutionary War.
Examination of early struggles for freedom and equality.
35 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Chapter 2 - "The Constitution"
The creation of the U.S. Constitution and its implications.
African Americans' fight for inclusion and recognition in the nation's founding documents.
The Three-Fifths Compromise and its impact on enslaved people.
Key figures and events that influenced the Constitution.
35 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Chapter 3 - "Slavery and the Civil War"
The growth of slavery in America and its economic and social impact.
The abolitionist movement and key abolitionists.
Overview of the Civil War, focusing on African American soldiers and their contributions.
The Emancipation Proclamation and its significance.
35 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Chapter 4 - "Reconstruction"
The Reconstruction era and its challenges.
The struggle for African American rights post-Civil War.
The rise of Jim Crow laws and segregation.
The role of African American leaders during Reconstruction.
35 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Due to the nature of slavery & oppression of Africans/ Black people, it is highly suggested that families view and discuss the chapter either in advance or following the class to address any concerns. This is one reason why all families are required to have a copy of the text as well. All content will be addressed sensitively and age appropriately.
Supply List
Each student should have a copy of Heart & Soul by Kadir Nelson.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am a licensed K-12 teacher, with multiple years of teaching history. I have been involved in racial justice and liberation work for many years and serve as a director on a National non-profit organization, focusing on building radical inclusion. I currently led a homeschool cooperative dedicated to centering the experiences and cultures of Black & Indigenous People of Color in Richmond, Va. I also currently teach several US & African-American history classes here on OutSchool at both the elementary and middle school levels.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$17
weekly or $100 for 6 classes1x per week, 6 weeks
35 min
Completed by 4 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-11
6-10 learners per class