Let’s start by being honest. Black History Month content is heavy.
First, African families were kidnapped from their homes. They were chained and crammed into ships where many died on the way to America. Next, those who survived were forced into slavery. We all know the inhumane treatment that came along with slavery. At this time, heroes begin rising up and creating hope. Once slavery is ended, a whole new issue arises – segregation. During this time there were grown adults screaming at children (Ruby Bridges), killing people because of the color of their skin or because they dared to empower others to fight segregation and blatant inequality. To make matters worse, there isn’t a clear cut ending point. Yes, segregation was made illegal, but that doesn’t mean America became a perfect picture of equality.When you introduce even half of this to tiny little second grade learners, it can be confusing and just plain shocking. This is exactly why you can’t wait until February to teach black history!
Instead, weave it into your content throughout the year! For example, during our character unit we read Ron’s Big Mission, by Rose Blue and Corinne J. Naden. This story takes place during the time of segregation. Ron is an intelligent little boy with a thirst for knowledge. He LOVES reading. The problem is that he is not allowed to check out books from the library because he is block. In this book he takes a stand and ends up getting his very own library card. This story lends itself to great lessons on character traits, identifying problem/solution and author’s message.Books like this are great discussion starters to begin introducing my students to black history a little at a time. By the time February rolls around, they are ready to piece everything they’ve learned together.
You can find some of my favorite black history books HERE!
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During the month of February, I use this African American/Black History Biography Passages and Timeline activity.We read one passage each week and add that topic to our timeline so they can visually see the progression of African American History. The students learn about The Declaration of Independence, Harriet Tubman, Abraham Lincoln, Thurgood Marshall and Ruby Bridges. I also keep out many of my other African American history books to extend their learning during read to self time.
By the end of this month, my students not only have a strong understanding of African American History, but they also have new “wonderings” they’re interested in following such as:
- Were there other people that helped slaves escape?
- How were the schools different?
- When did women get the right to vote?
So, should you teach black history in 2nd grade? Absolutely. Because along with all of that heavy content comes lessons of hope, bravery, and proof in the power of working together toward a cause you believe in.
