Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024

The Autobiography of Malcolm X by As Told to Alex Haley

Grade Level: 10-12 (Due to mature themes and language)

Subject: American History, Literature

Time Allotment: 4-6 Weeks (depending on reading pace and activities)

Learning Objectives:

Students will analyze the evolution of Malcolm X's identity and beliefs throughout his life.
Students will understand the key events and figures of the American Civil Rights Movement.
Students will identify and analyze the social, political, and economic factors shaping Malcolm X's experiences.
Students will develop critical thinking skills by evaluating different perspectives on race relations in America.
Students will improve close reading, research, and communication skills through discussions and activities.

Materials:

Copies of "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Haley
Images, articles, and videos related to Malcolm X's life and the Civil Rights Movement
Whiteboard or projector
Markers or pens
Handouts with key concepts, vocabulary definitions, discussion prompts, and graphic organizers
Access to online resources (optional)

Lesson Outline:

Week 1: Introduction and Early Life

Day 1: Introduction: Brainstorm student understanding of Malcolm X and the Civil Rights Movement. Discuss the importance of autobiographies in historical context.
Day 2-3: Early Life: Students read the first chapters focusing on Malcolm's childhood in Lansing and experiences with racism. Analyze the impact of these experiences on his identity.
Day 4: Activity: Students create a timeline of significant events in Malcolm X's early life, including family history, migration, and encounters with racism.
Day 5: Discussion: Explore the social and economic factors contributing to Malcolm X's experiences in the North. Analyze the concept of "racial identity" and its formation.

Week 2-3: Street Life, Nation of Islam, and Transformation

Day 6-8: Street Life and Incarceration: Students read about Malcolm X's life in Harlem, involvement in criminal activities, and his imprisonment. Discuss the impact of these experiences on his worldview.
Day 9-10: The Nation of Islam: Analyze Malcolm X's conversion to the Nation of Islam and its influence on his beliefs about race and religion.
Day 11: Activity: Students compare and contrast the goals and philosophies of the Nation of Islam with other Civil Rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.
Day 12-13: Transformation and Pilgrimage: Analyze the impact of Malcolm X's pilgrimage to Mecca and its influence on his evolving views on race and religion.

Week 4: Black Nationalism, Pan-Africanism, and Assassination

Day 14-15: Black Nationalism and Pan-Africanism: Students read about Malcolm X's break from the Nation of Islam and his growing emphasis on Black Nationalism and Pan-Africanism.
Day 16: Activity: Students research and debate the merits and limitations of Black Nationalism as a strategy for achieving racial equality.
Day 17-18: Legacy and Assassination: Analyze the impact of Malcolm X's life and work on the Civil Rights Movement. Discuss the circumstances surrounding his assassination.
Day 19: Assessment: Short essay analyzing a turning point in Malcolm X's life and its impact on his beliefs.

Week 5-6 (Optional): Further Exploration and Reflection

✵ Research a specific figure or event from the Civil Rights Movement and present their findings.

✵ Analyze a speech by Malcolm X and discuss its rhetorical strategies and significance.

✵ Create a visual representation (poster, collage) depicting a key theme or event from the autobiography.

Day 23-24: Class presentations and discussions: Students share their research and creative projects.
Day 25: Wrap-Up Discussion: Reflect on the book's relevance to contemporary issues of race relations and social justice.
Day 26: Assessment: Final project presentation and participation in discussions.

Differentiation:

Provide scaffolding and support for struggling readers through summaries, graphic organizers, and audiobooks.
Offer choice in activities and assessments to cater to different learning styles.
Encourage advanced students to delve deeper into specific topics through independent research and presentations.

Extension Activities:

Watch documentaries or films about Malcolm X and the Civil Rights Movement.
Research and discuss the life and work of other key figures in the Civil Rights Movement.