Fall 2013
rethink.
Lesson Overview:
Summary:
This lesson will introduce the controversy in the Neshaminy School District about whether not to to change the name of the mascot because the name “Redskins” is demeaning to Native Americans. The will view different articles that show different opinions on the topic. They will then create a presentation they could present to the Neshaminy School Board discussing whether or not they believe the name of the mascot should be changed and present it to the class. The class will also take a mock vote to see if the name would change if they were the school board.
Student Objectives:
Students will be able to make an informed opinion about whether or not the name of the mascot should change using information provided during different unit lessons.
Students will be able to create a formal presentation to the Neshaminy School Board on whether or not the mascot name should be changed.
Preparation:
Teacher Background:
Teachers should have the basic background knowledge of:
-the trail of tears
-controversy about Neshaminy School District’s mascot
Prior Student Knowledge:
Students should have the basic background knowledge of:
-the trail of tears
-basic PowerPoint skills
Physical Space:
-Computer lab
-Classroom
Materials:
http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=news/local&id=9289769
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/16/neshaminy-high-school-redskins-newspaper_n_4288031.html
Instruction:
1. Introduce the topic of changing the name of the Neshaminy School District’s mascot the “Redskin” because it is offensive.
2. Read 3 news articles about why the parent wants to have the named changed, as well as the use of the name in the high school’s newspaper.
3. As a class, discuss civilly whether or not they believe the name is offensive and provide reasoning for why they believe this way. Also discuss whether or not the name should be changed and why. Discussion should have valid historical as well as community based reasoning when taking a stance. The teacher should make a list on the board during the discussion.
4. Each student will then create a PowerPoint presentation trying to persuade the school board to change the name of the Mascot or for them to keep the name. Students will need to use examples and reasoning discussed during class.
5. Each student will present their presentations to the class.
6. After each student has presented the class will take a mock vote to see whether or not the name of the mascot would change if they were the school board.
Standards:
1.6.4.B: Demonstrate awareness of audience using appropriate volume and clarity in formal speaking presentations.
5.3.4.F: Explain how different perspectives can lead to conflict.
5.3.4.G: Identify individual interests and explain ways to influence others.
5.2.4.A: Identify individual rights and needs and the rights and needs of others in the classroom, school, and community.
5.2.4.B: Describe the sources of conflict and disagreement and different ways conflict can be resolved.
Assessment:
For the assessment on this unit, the teacher wants to see whether or not the students are creating informed opinions and using reasoning for their opinions when trying to convince change or for things to stay the same.