Madam CJ Walker, born Sarah Breedlove in 1867, was a pioneering African American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and social activist. Teaching students about her achievements and contributions is a crucial step towards inspiring the next generation to embrace a growth mindset and break through barriers. By educating them about Madam CJ Walker, we enable them to understand the importance of perseverance, ingenuity, and advocacy in the face of adversity. This article details several approaches to incorporating this powerful role model into classroom discussions and activities.
Early Life and Struggles:
Begin by introducing students to Madam CJ Walker’s humble beginnings as the daughter of former slaves. Explain how she became an orphan at a young age and worked as a laundress to support their siblings as well. Remind students that Madam CJ Walker’s struggles were not unique for African Americans during that time period, but instead represent a broader narrative of resilience within the community.
Entrepreneurship:
Introduce students to Madam CJ Walker’s entrepreneurship by discussing how she developed hair care products for black women out of necessity. Detail how her determination and resourcefulness helped turn this personal challenge into a successful business venture. Emphasize that Madam CJ Walker is considered one of the first female self-made millionaires in America.
Philanthropy and Advocacy:
Madam CJ Walker did much more than just create successful businesses – she also gave back to her community extensively. Teach your students how she financially supported many institutions such as the YMCA and educational scholarships for African Americans. Further, explain her work as an activist – campaigning for anti-lynching legislation and organizing alongside notable civil rights leaders including W.E.B DuBois.
Madam CJ Walker in the Classroom:
Here are some practical suggestions for incorporating Madam CJ Walker’s teachings into your curriculum:
1. Reading materials: Assign readings from biographies, articles, and primary sources that detail Madam CJ Walker’s life and work. This will give students a comprehensive understanding of her achievements.
2. Documentaries and films: Watch documentaries or movies depicting Madam CJ Walker’s life story. Afterwards, engage in thoughtful discussions prompted by questions or themes from the film.
3. Innovative projects: Encourage students to create their own business idea or invention, inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of Madam CJ Walker. The projects can be presented and discussed in class as a form of peer-learning.
4. Classroom debates: Organize debates discussing different aspects of Madam CJ Walker’s life and legacy. This promotes critical thinking skills while deepening the students’ grasp on her experiences.
5. Gallery walks & field trips: Visit local museums that showcase exhibits related to Madam CJ Walker or African American history, enhancing retention of information through interactive learning experiences.
The post appeared first on .
Early Life and Struggles:
Begin by introducing students to Madam CJ Walker’s humble beginnings as the daughter of former slaves. Explain how she became an orphan at a young age and worked as a laundress to support their siblings as well. Remind students that Madam CJ Walker’s struggles were not unique for African Americans during that time period, but instead represent a broader narrative of resilience within the community.
Entrepreneurship:
Introduce students to Madam CJ Walker’s entrepreneurship by discussing how she developed hair care products for black women out of necessity. Detail how her determination and resourcefulness helped turn this personal challenge into a successful business venture. Emphasize that Madam CJ Walker is considered one of the first female self-made millionaires in America.
Philanthropy and Advocacy:
Madam CJ Walker did much more than just create successful businesses – she also gave back to her community extensively. Teach your students how she financially supported many institutions such as the YMCA and educational scholarships for African Americans. Further, explain her work as an activist – campaigning for anti-lynching legislation and organizing alongside notable civil rights leaders including W.E.B DuBois.
Madam CJ Walker in the Classroom:
Here are some practical suggestions for incorporating Madam CJ Walker’s teachings into your curriculum:
1. Reading materials: Assign readings from biographies, articles, and primary sources that detail Madam CJ Walker’s life and work. This will give students a comprehensive understanding of her achievements.
2. Documentaries and films: Watch documentaries or movies depicting Madam CJ Walker’s life story. Afterwards, engage in thoughtful discussions prompted by questions or themes from the film.
3. Innovative projects: Encourage students to create their own business idea or invention, inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of Madam CJ Walker. The projects can be presented and discussed in class as a form of peer-learning.
4. Classroom debates: Organize debates discussing different aspects of Madam CJ Walker’s life and legacy. This promotes critical thinking skills while deepening the students’ grasp on her experiences.
5. Gallery walks & field trips: Visit local museums that showcase exhibits related to Madam CJ Walker or African American history, enhancing retention of information through interactive learning experiences.
The post appeared first on .