As educators, we are always searching for ways to engage our students and encourage critical thinking skills. Several months ago, I created a Civil Rights inquiry-based detective activity for my 8th graders. This activity provided my students with an immersive, authentic, and interactive learning experience. In this activity, students examined primary sources connected to the Winston-Salem sit-ins in 1960.
My exhibits were a collection of artifacts, documents, and other materials that provided students with a glimpse into the historical context of the case. Students were provided a detective journal where they recorded their observations and conclusions as they investigated the case.
Access to technology was required for this activity. Students scanned QR codes linking to videos and Google Earth as part of the investigation.
As a culminating activity, students watched a clip from the program, History Detectives. This provided an opportunity for students to reflect on their investigation and draw conclusions based on the evidence they gathered.
This activity can be set up as a gallery walk, stations activity, or assigned to students working independently or in small groups.
Civil Rights inquiry-based activities can be a powerful learning tool that encourages students to think critically and develop analytical skills. My Civil Rights Detective Activity provided students with an immersive, authentic, and interactive learning experience. Bonus...students enjoyed the activity!
I encourage educators to share their thoughts on this topic. Have you used an activity like this in your classroom? How did your students respond? What tips do you have for other educators who are interested in trying this activity with their students?
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