Exploring History Through 'Hidden Figures' Movie

Core Skills Analysis

History

• The student learned about the racial segregation and discrimination faced by African-American women in the field of mathematics and engineering during the 1960s.
• Understanding the role of key historical figures such as Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson in the space race and their contributions to NASA.
• Exploring the themes of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity as illustrated by the characters in the movie.
• Gaining insight into the Civil Rights Movement and its impact on opportunities and equality for women of color in STEM fields.

Tips

To further engage with the concepts explored in the movie 'Hidden Figures', the student can try researching more about the real-life individuals depicted in the film and their achievements. They can also explore other movies or documentaries that highlight similar themes of overcoming obstacles and making significant contributions to society. Encouraging discussions with peers or family members about the historical context of the movie can deepen the student's understanding of the challenges faced by the characters. Additionally, exploring hands-on activities related to space exploration or mathematics can provide a more interactive learning experience.

Book Recommendations

• Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky: This illustrated book showcases the achievements of women in various scientific fields throughout history, celebrating their contributions and inspiring young readers.
• Who Was Katherine Johnson? by Meghan McCarthy: This children's book introduces the life and work of Katherine Johnson, the mathematician whose calculations were crucial to the success of NASA's early space missions.
• The Girl With a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague by Julia Finley Mosca: This picture book tells the inspiring true story of Raye Montague, an African-American woman who revolutionized the design of navy ships using computer programming.