This 90-minute high school lesson explores key milestones of the American Civil Rights Movement from 1909 to the present. Using the YouTube video “Turning Points in Civil Rights History,” students are introduced to pivotal events, legislation, and grassroots efforts that shaped the fight for equality.
The lesson begins with a warm-up discussion to activate prior knowledge, followed by a guided viewing of the video with fill-in-the-blank notes. Students then complete a chronological timeline activity and engage in deeper analysis through group discussion and a critical thinking task that connects historical movements to current civil rights issues. A brief review quiz wraps up the session to reinforce learning.
The included student worksheet features a variety of activities—guided notes, a timeline sort, a written reflection, and a quiz—with an answer key provided for easy assessment. This lesson not only builds historical understanding but also encourages students to think critically about ongoing struggles for justice and equality in modern society.
