Major themes or topics: Women in history, Civil Rights movement, March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, activism, youth activism

Big Question: How do people use their talents, skills, and voices to make a difference?

Destination(s): National Museum of African American History and Culture

Pre-Lesson: Students explore the Civil Rights Movement through the eyes of four women activists. Students investigate artifacts including a button from Joan Trumpauer's denim vest, a recording of Angela Davis' speech, and a collection of photographs of Carlotta Walls LaNier, to build their understanding of the movement and the women behind it.

Field Experience: At the museum, students continue to build their understanding by looking closely at artifacts that belonged to each shero, connecting more deeply to these women's stories and their role in the struggle to guarantee equal rights for all. Students watch a film that highlights women's participation in the Civil Rights Movement, then reflect further on their experience by the waterfall in the Contemplative Court.

Post-Lesson: Back in the classroom, students assume the perspective of a shero of their choice and write an "I Am" poem in the first person, reflecting on the life and activism of that shero. Students end this unit with a reflection about how they can become activists themselves.