Wilkerson uses the terms "colored," "black," and "African American" at various points in the book in keeping with the terminology of the time. This Lesson Plan uses the terms "Black" and "African American," regardless of historical period, except when quoting from the book. Wilkerson refers to Robert Joseph Pershing Foster as "Pershing" when describing his early life and "Robert" after he migrates. This Lesson Plan does the same.
This book contains frequent descriptions of violence and discrimination against Black people. The teacher may wish to prepare students for this content before reading.
The thought questions in this lesson plan provide material and ideas that students can use to...