Reading about the Underground Railroad / Activity Analysis

English Language Arts

• The child learned about the historical context of the Underground Railroad and its significance in American history.
• They practiced reading comprehension skills while reading about the different individuals involved in the Underground Railroad.
• They explored the use of descriptive language and imagery in the texts about the Underground Railroad.
• They developed their vocabulary by learning new words related to the topic, such as "abolition," "freedom," and "conductor."

History

• The child gained knowledge about the Underground Railroad and its role in helping enslaved individuals escape to freedom.
• They learned about key figures of the Underground Railroad, such as Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass.
• They understood how the Underground Railroad was a covert network of safe houses and secret routes.
• They explored the challenges faced by enslaved individuals and the risks involved in their journey to freedom.

Math

• The child analyzed data related to the Underground Railroad, such as the number of escaped slaves and the distances traveled.
• They calculated distances between different safe houses and plotted them on a map.
• They learned about the concept of time and how it played a role in the success of escape attempts.
• They practiced critical thinking skills by solving math problems related to the Underground Railroad.

Physical Education

• The child discussed the physical challenges faced by escaped slaves on their journey to freedom.
• They participated in role-playing activities to understand the physical demands of travel and the need for stealth.
• They engaged in physical exercises to simulate the strength and endurance required for long journeys.
• They learned about teamwork and cooperation, as slaves often relied on the help of others to escape.

Science

• The child explored the geography and topography of the areas where the Underground Railroad operated.
• They learned about the natural resources available along the escape routes and their significance for survival.
• They discussed the science behind hiding techniques used by escaped slaves in order to avoid detection.
• They gained an understanding of the impact of weather conditions on travel and the need for adaptation.

Social Studies

• The child gained an understanding of the social and cultural context of the Underground Railroad.
• They explored the role of different communities in supporting escaped slaves.
• They discussed the moral and ethical implications of slavery and its eventual abolition.
• They learned about the ongoing fight for civil rights and equality in the United States.

Continued development related to the activity can include organizing a virtual or in-person field trip to a local museum or historical site that focuses on the Underground Railroad. This can provide a hands-on experience and further reinforce the concepts learned. Another creative way is to encourage the child to write their own fictional story or play based on the Underground Railroad, incorporating the knowledge and themes they have learned. This can enhance their creativity, writing skills, and understanding of historical events.

Book Recommendations

• Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman by Alan Schroeder: A fictionalized account of Harriet Tubman's childhood and her journey towards becoming one of the most famous conductors of the Underground Railroad.
• The Drinking Gourd by F.N. Monjo: A picture book that tells the story of a young boy and his family's escape from slavery using the Underground Railroad.
• Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine: Based on a true story, this book follows the life of Henry "Box" Brown, who mailed himself to freedom in a wooden crate.