Why teach this?
The Harlem Renaissance represents a cultural explosion coming out of New York City in the 20’s and 30’s, comprised of literature, art, and music. This is the first time in American History that African American culture was explored and celebrated by both African Americans and some whites.
It is important for students to understand that classic literature has not been written by just one group of people, and for them to understand African American’s plight for education, social reform, and cultural respect. “Those in power write the history, while those who suffer write the songs.” – Frank Harte |
Writing Activity:
Get out a sheet of paper and think about the following question.
What does the Harlem Renaissance mean to you? What comes to your mind when you hear this phrase?
After a few minutes discuss this with your 12:00 partner.
What does the Harlem Renaissance mean to you? What comes to your mind when you hear this phrase?
After a few minutes discuss this with your 12:00 partner.
Resources:
http://www.learner.org/courses/amerhistory/pdf/Harlem-Ren_L-One.pdf
This PDF should be read by teachers before they begin teaching this topic. It discusses
how the Harlem Renaissance should be taught and all the different aspects that it
involves.
http://www.pbs.org/jazz/classroom/visualize.htm
This website gives a lesson to show students how to visualize and comment on music
and poetry of the Harlem Renaissance. KWL strategies and sharing with the class
reactions to music are a part of the lesson.
http://www.hrc.utexas.edu/educator/modules/teachingthetwenties/lesson.php
This website offers links to several different types of websties on the 1920’s in America.
There are some that focus on the Harlem Renaissance, especially “The Harlem
Renaissance: Awakening the Black Soul” and “The Poet’s Message: ‘The Colored Solider’
by Langston Hughes.”
This PDF should be read by teachers before they begin teaching this topic. It discusses
how the Harlem Renaissance should be taught and all the different aspects that it
involves.
http://www.pbs.org/jazz/classroom/visualize.htm
This website gives a lesson to show students how to visualize and comment on music
and poetry of the Harlem Renaissance. KWL strategies and sharing with the class
reactions to music are a part of the lesson.
http://www.hrc.utexas.edu/educator/modules/teachingthetwenties/lesson.php
This website offers links to several different types of websties on the 1920’s in America.
There are some that focus on the Harlem Renaissance, especially “The Harlem
Renaissance: Awakening the Black Soul” and “The Poet’s Message: ‘The Colored Solider’
by Langston Hughes.”