Famous Americans and Their Contributions
Session 6: Contributions of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Materials

• Picture or poster of Martin Luther King, Jr.
• Teacher-selected book about Martin Luther King, Jr.

Instructional Activities

1. Show students a picture or poster of Martin Luther King, Jr. Ask students what they already know about him. Write their responses on a KWL chart about Martin Luther King, Jr. The following Web sites may be helpful:
   •     A collection of graphic organizers to be used in the unit <http://www.eduplace.com/graphicorganizer/>  
   •    Graphic Organizers
   <http://www.sdcoe.k12.ca.us/score/actbank/torganiz.htm>
   
   
2. Ask students what they would like to learn about Martin Luther King, Jr., and post their responses under the “What We Want to Know” section of the KWL chart.
   
   
3. Read a teacher-selected book about Martin Luther King, Jr., and follow with a discussion. Have students use a variety of graphic organizers to arrange information from the book. Follow with another class discussion about Martin Luther King, Jr.
   
   
4. Add information with students to the KWL chart on “What We Learned.” Be sure to include the following:
   •    Martin Luther King, Jr. was an African American minister who worked so that all people would be treated fairly.
   •    Martin Luther King, Jr. led peaceful marches and gave speeches.
   
   
5. Help students research additional information about Martin Luther King, Jr., using resource materials/Web sites/videos.
   
   
6. Lead a classroom discussion about the quote by Martin Luther King, Jr., “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”
   
   
7. Complete the “What We Learned” section of the KWL chart with students.