Teaching & Learning with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Today, we remember and commemorate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, the man who continues to inspire each new generation.
Dr. King has many titles. He’s the iconic Civil Rights leader who helped organize and participated in non-violent protests throughout the South. He’s the preacher who taught and mentored on the ideals of freedom, equality, and true justice for all. He’s the husband of Mrs. Coretta Scott King, the civil rights leader and activist who continued his work after his death and founded The King Center. He’s the father of four children who follow in his activist footsteps. While today we will reflect on the past, on Dr. King’s history, work, and words, we can also be encouraged that his legacy lives on.
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”
– Martin Luther King, Jr.
Resources for Educators & Learners:
This activity from PBS asks learners to read and listen to Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” and examine the speech as a defining moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Students then explain their analysis through a visual drawing or illustration.
On 10 December 1964, Dr. King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Read and discuss the award ceremony speech delivered by Gunnar Jahn, Chairman of the Nobel Committee. What does he highlight about King’s work and character? What does he note about King’s impact on the world? What resources are quoted and cited in this speech?
This lesson from The Martin Luther King, Jr. Research and Education Institute students see examples of King’s ideas of nonviolence as an instrument for change by studying the Birmingham Campaign of 1963. Students learn about King’s arrest in Birmingham and read & listen to his “Letter from a Birmingham Jail.” Students consider his motivations for writing, his intended audience, and the effectiveness of his strategies. The provided discussion questions can be used to facilitate conversations or as writing prompts for written reflection.
Read the 2022 Proclamation on Martin Luther King, Jr. from the United States White House in commemoration of King’s federal holiday.
There are also several videos and audio recording of King’s speeches and sermons available on YouTube.
Looking for more? The King Center has a variety of resources and learning opportunities for all. Which King resources do you use in the classroom? Which speeches, sermons, or Civil Rights moments do your students want to discuss? Let us know!
