The aim of this lesson is to assess how far Jesse Owens inspired the Civil Rights Movement.
It can also be used as a stand-alone lesson for Black History Month.
Students begin by exploring Jesse Owens’ early childhood and how his natural athletic ability was recognised at a young age.
They then examine his experiences of racism and segregation in the American South under the Jim Crow Laws, considering how far these experiences affected his life and developing athletics career.
A chronological activity allows students to build a clear picture of the key events in Owens’ life, before using video footage of Hitler and the 1936 Berlin Olympics to explore the significance of his achievements in Nazi Germany. Differentiated questions then challenge students to consider his medals, achievements and legacy.
A true or false quiz provides a lively way to consolidate learning while questioning what happened when Jesse Owens returned to the USA. Students consider how he was treated after his success in Berlin and how far his life really changed as a result.
The lesson is enquiry based, with a key question introduced through a lightbulb activity at the start and revisited later to show how students’ understanding has developed.
The resource includes suggested teaching strategies, differentiated materials and comes in PowerPoint format if there is a wish to adapt and change.
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