Black History: Heros of the Underground Railroad CC Performance Task

Prepare students for common core testing with this seasonal performance task during Black History month. There are five lessons with an argumentative writing opportunity as a culminating activity. A Core Rigor argumentative writing organizer is provided.

Lesson 1: Underground Railroad Video
The prescribed video is no longer available. I recommend YouTube's "On
Freedom's Path, The Slaves of the Underground Railroad" by Gabriel
Martin Escobar: www.youtube.com/watch?VTupYFRRLFAD or you may
use a video of your choice.
Introduction and vocabulary acquisition

Lesson 2: Meet Harriet Tubman
Close read mini-biography, collaborate in filling in
organizer.

Note: Organizer is provided for comparing heroes in lessons 2-5

Lesson 3: Meet Thomas Garrett
Close read mini-biography, collaborate in filling in
organizer.

Lesson 4: Meet Frederick Douglas
Close read mini-biography, collaborate in filling in
organizer.

Lesson 5: Meet Sojourner Truth
Close read mini- biography, collaborate in filling in
organizer.

Culminating Activity: Argumentative writing prompt.