TeachOne: King's Words of Challenge
What does it mean to be the best of whoever you are? What is your life's blueprint?
Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. stands as an essential figure in American History. As a leader of the Civil Rights Movement during the 1950s and 1960s, Dr. King worked tirelessly to bring equality, inclusiveness, and dignity to all Americans. Many of his speeches are famous, but in this lesson, we analyze the language and impact of an address that is lesser known. King spoke to a group of students at Barratt Junior High School in Philadelphia on October 26, 1967. Here, Dr. King not only spoke to this class, but to all youth in perpetuity about purpose and passion. Although he was assassinated on April 4, 1968, his message still resonates with us and infuses us all with an inspiration to continue on with his noble vision of what America could be.
Learners make a talent chain for the group. This is a representation of the many strengths and talents each learner brings, making the whole group strong. A children's book sparks a joyful idea for community members to connect over art, and the learners establish a relationship with people at a retirement home or preschool.
In response to Martin Luther King, Jr.'s challenge, we explore what it means to be the best with the talents you have. The learners practice listening and responding with respect. Everyone has something to give, and this lesson helps us respect and celebrate the contributions we all can make to peaceful and inclusive communities. Students internalize "I matter in my communities."