The 5 Ws and H are a powerful and simple way for students to get an overview of a topic and better enhance their understanding. After learning about Slavery in America, students will create a narrative storyboard to explain the 5Ws and H. They will create scenes and a short description to answer the following questions about Slavery in America: When did slavery occur in America? Who was affected by it? Where did it occur? Why did it continue for so long? How did people resist slavery? What happened in the end to finally abolish slavery? In this way students can examine the core ideas about why the institution of slavery was so embedded in American society and how it finally came to an end.
When learning about the Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How of Slavery in America, students may need teachers to provide a variety of resources. The use of diverse resources such as primary sources, videos, readings from textbooks, encyclopedias, and literature can be helpful for students to gain an accurate and complete picture of the time period. Students can use graphic organizers with spaces for the 5Ws and H to write down their notes while they read or watch.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that answers the following questions about Slavery in America: When did slavery occur in America? Who was affected by it? Where did it occur? Why did it continue for so long? How did people resist slavery? What happened in the end to finally abolish slavery?
Student Instructions:
Requirements: Must have 6 cells to answer the When, Who, Where, Why, How, and What questions. Must include a short caption to answer the question and appropriate illustrations for each cell that illustrate the answer.
Navigate sensitive topics confidently by establishing respectful norms, validating students' feelings, and guiding thoughtful conversation. Encourage empathy and critical thinking while ensuring all voices are heard in a safe environment.
Start by co-creating discussion rules such as listening respectfully, not interrupting, and valuing different perspectives. Clear expectations help students feel safe and respected during challenging conversations.
Demonstrate how to respond empathetically to classmates' ideas and emotions. Model phrases like "I understand why that might be upsetting" or "That’s a good question." This builds trust and openness.
Choose resources and language that are accurate but sensitive to students’ developmental levels. Preview materials to ensure they are suitable, and explain terms or concepts as needed.
Invite students to ask questions and share their thoughts about the 5Ws. Promote reflection by prompting with "How would you feel if..." or "Why do you think...?" to deepen understanding.
Check in with students after the lesson to see how they’re feeling. Offer time for journaling or private conversations if needed, and remind them of resources for support.
The 5Ws and H of slavery in America are: Who was affected, What happened, When it occurred, Where it took place, Why it continued, and How people resisted or it ended. This framework helps students understand key facts and causes.
To teach the 5Ws of slavery in America to elementary students, use age-appropriate resources like primary sources, videos, and storyboards. Encourage students to answer Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How using graphic organizers and creative illustrations.
A storyboard activity works well. Have students create six illustrated cells, each answering one of the 5Ws and H about slavery in America, with captions and visuals to reinforce understanding.
Using multiple resources like textbooks, primary sources, and videos offers a more accurate and well-rounded view of slavery, helping students understand its complexity and impact from different perspectives.
When creating a narrative storyboard, ensure each cell answers a specific 5Ws or H question, use clear captions, and choose visuals that accurately depict historical events and people. Encourage creativity and accuracy.