From when the first Asians immigrated in the early 1700s to present times, Asian-Americans have faced many challenges. They have been systematically denied rights and access. They have had to fight against stereotypes related to concepts such as “yellow peril,” “perpetual foreigner,” and “model minority.” They have been incarcerated, assaulted, shamed, and dehumanized. Yet, they have persevered and continued to thrive. In these lesson plans, which are geared for the elementary classroom (grades 1-6), students will learn about the strength and power of the Asian American voice and how, over time with each generation, the Asian American mindset has shifted away from acceptance and assimilation to activism.
Lesson Plans
Grades 1-5
Subject: English Language Arts, U.S. History
Who were the first Asian Americans? This episode focuses on early Asian immigrants to the United States, their reasons for immigration, successes they experienced, challenges they faced, and the changing reception they received in their host country.
Grades 4-6
Subject: English Language Arts, Social Studies, U.S. History
In this lesson, students examine what happened to Japanese Americans during WWII, what constitutional rights were violated in the process, and why such a massive injustice happened.
Grades 4-6
Subject: English Language Arts, Social Studies, U.S. History
Patsy Mink’s life story exemplifies advocacy for change and equality. She confronted discrimination when she wanted to become a doctor and lawyer. Then she joined the Democratic Party to fight for equality.
Grades 4-6
Subject: English Language Arts, Social Studies, U.S. History
For Filipino-American farm workers in California, working and living conditions were very poor. They were paid extremely low wages, discrimination prevented many workers from having families, and they were not protected if they became hurt or sick on the job.
