What Grade Is African American History?

African American history is a vital part of American history. It encompasses the struggles, achievements, and contributions of African Americans to the development of the United States.

But what grade level is African American history taught in schools? Let’s explore.

Elementary School

In elementary school, students are introduced to basic concepts of American history, including important figures like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Martin Luther King Jr. However, African American history is often overlooked or briefly mentioned. Students may learn about slavery and the Civil Rights Movement but with a limited focus.

Teaching Method:

Teachers may use picture books or short stories to introduce African American figures like Harriet Tubman or Rosa Parks. These stories can help students understand the struggles and challenges faced by African Americans in U.S. history.

Middle School

In middle school, students dive deeper into U. History and may have a more in-depth study of African American history. They may learn about the impact of slavery on society and how it led to tensions that ultimately resulted in the Civil War. They may also study figures like Frederick Douglass, W.E.B Du Bois, Marcus Garvey, and others who fought for civil rights.

Teachers may use documentaries or films such as Roots or Selma to give students a better understanding of the struggles faced by African Americans in U. History.

High School

In high school, students have a more detailed study of U. History including an extensive study of African American history. They will learn about significant events such as Reconstruction Era, Jim Crow Laws, Civil Rights Movement, Black Power Movement and much more.

High school teachers typically use textbooks supplemented with primary sources such as speeches or letters written by prominent leaders like Malcolm X or Martin Luther King Jr. They also use secondary sources like scholarly articles, biographies, and historical novels to help students understand the intricacies of African American history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, African American history is a vital part of U. History and should be taught at all levels of education. While elementary school introduces basic concepts, middle and high school offer a more in-depth study of African American history that helps students gain a better understanding of the contributions made by African Americans to the development of the United States. It’s up to educators to ensure that this important part of history is not overlooked or forgotten.