If Beale Street Could Talk Lesson Plan

"A Talk to Teachers"

Kind of Activity:

Individual Writing

Objective:

Students will read and discuss Baldwin's essay before writing their own 'Talk to Teachers'.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.1, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.2, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.5

Structure:

Baldwin's "A Talk to Teachers" was delivered to New York City teachers in 1963 and later published in the popular weekly magazine The Saturday Review. In the piece, Baldwin argues for the responsibility of educators to combat injustice in society. He encourages educators to inspire critical thinking and action in regards to the flaws in American society. In this activity,...