by Tammy Trumbo, Pomeroy
Students will do research on the internet and create a travel journal as if they are traveling through the Underground Railroad. Students have to include at least one well researched character and write about an encounter that they have with this person.
Teacher Introduction
This lesson teaches students about the Underground Railroad and what slaves actually experienced. Students work in groups and individually to research and write about what the life of a slave was like as they escaped North. This project also helps students realize what a struggle it was for families to be separated.
This lesson is mainly aimed at eighth grade but it can be adapted to any grade level during Black History Month. It can also be used with language arts standards.
In the conclusion, there is a movie that can be rented or bought to introduce students to the Underground Railroad. Some of the websites can be introduced to students as a class and used to enhance instruction lectures.