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Lesson 1: Identifying Commonly Held Assumptions
Goal:  To develop an informed perspective on immigration and immigration issues

Objectives:
  • Students will identify commonly held assumptions about immigration
  • Students will gather data to support or refute generalized statements
  • Students will identify and define a list of vocabulary words related to immigration and refugee issues

Time Frame:  One to two class periods

Age Level:  Middle school-adult

Vocabulary:  immigrant, citizenship, assimilate, assumption, assertion

Relevant Subject Areas and Connection to Minnesota State High School Standards:

Social Studies: Social Science Processes, Diverse Perspectives
History: World History and Cultures
English: Academic Writing
Mathematics: Chance and Data Analysis

 

Activity 1.1: Sharing Stories
This simple attention getter will raise awareness of the counties of origin of their own ancestors and those of their classmates. (approx. 20 min.)
Activity 1.2: Deciphering Messages
Use this activity to help build a foundation of vocabulary for discussing immigration policy, the process of immigration, and attainment of citizenship through an interactive quiz. (approx. 10-20 min.)
Activity 1.3: Critiquing Assumptions
Use this activity to identify and assess assumptions (both accurate and inaccurate) available to them.  Help students understand the importance of factual evidence in assessing assumptions. (approx. 15-20 min.)
Setting the Stage
Integration or assimilation?  Throughout the nation's history the debate has raged.  Use this activity to guide students through quotes, recipes, a quiz, a fact sheet and article - the students will form an opinion about how immigration has flavored the stew of our nation.