Letter From Birmingham Jail Lesson Plan

Historical Context for “Letter from Birmingham Jail”

Kind of Activity:

Technology

Objective:

Students will research and be able to explain the historical context for “Letter from Birmingham Jail.”

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.7

Structure:

This activity is designed for students to do before they read “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” though they could do it after they read the letter.

To begin the activity, explain to students that King wrote this letter in April 1963. This was a significant time period for a number of reasons. The historical context is deeply important for understanding the nuances of King’s work. In this activity, students will have the...