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Who Are We ?

Our character traits and physical appearance make us the individuals we are; however, we are more than what meets the eye.  It is difficult to know who you are without knowing your heritage. Each one of us has a story within us, with guidance and direction our story can be molded into a great work.

African American culture has influenced all cultures and is reflected throughout society, especially in American Literature.  The roots of literature can be traced back to Pre-Colonial Africa.  In America, Slave Narratives tell a fascinating account of life.  The Harlem Renaissance celebrates African American Literature.  There still are genres that are untapped by today’s youth.

This project will explore the impact of African American writers, poets, and song writers on American Literature.  Students will identify key figures of the Harlem Renaissance and compare them to present literary figures.  Each student will produce a creative product, such as an original poem, a personal experience, biography, character sketch, or song.

Does culture effect literature?

What influences writers, poets, and song writers?

How have African Americans and the African American culture impacted American Literature?

What was the Harlem Renaissance?

What is the importance of the Harlem Renaissance on American writers, poets, song writers, and authors?

What makes American Literature unique?  

Unit Prerequisites

• Basic Internet Skills

• Word Processing Skills

• PowerPoint Skills

Access:

• Explore web sites

• Read material

• Interview family members

• Recollect information

• Review Material

 Interpret:

• Analyze information

• Compare information

• Apply to your personal experiences

 Produce: 

• Create a Name Poem

• Compose a Character Sketch

• Write about a Real Life Experience

• Depict your favorite character

 Communicate:

• Share information with your group

• Present your findings to your group class

• Publish your works

 Evaluate:

• Critique your group project using the rubric

• Assess  your individual work

• Evaluate the group’s final project

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