This lesson explores the most recent constitutional expansion of voting rights: extending them to people between 18 and 21 years of age. Students will read the 26th Amendment and learn about its history. They will view an NBC report from Nov. 5, 2008, that explains how important the youth vote was to the election of Barack Obama. Finally, they will examine the results of a recent study showing that young voters have very different concerns than older voters, and hypothesize about how young voters might affect elections in 2012 and beyond.

There is no doubt that modern lifestyle changes have contributed to the problems of overweight and obesity among adults and children. Some school health and physical education programs are tackling the challenge of integrating healthier eating and regular exercise into the lives of students. But what about the social challenges that face children who are overweight? And how do media messages reinforce the bias they already experience among many of their peers? In these lessons, students will evaluate both their own biases related to size differences and the ways in which media shape those biases.

Making art together is one of the most important ways students can engage in a collaborative process, and talk about the messages and methods they believe in. Art takes time and process. Once children have had a chance to look at different symbols and think about the importance of technique, colors, shapes, and styles, it is time with each other and their art materials that will really allow them to express themselves, finding their voices as artists and activists simultaneously.

As students move forward with work on their activist murals, it will be important for them to think about managing their time and materials. It will also be important for them to remind themselves and each other of their messages and ultimate goals. Continuing work on an ongoing project can be challenging for some children, but it is an important part of developing an identity as someone who does good and important work. Make sure you show respect for the challenging aspects of this activity as your students move ahead with their mural.

This activity asks students to read and compare the language of two oral histories, asking them to think about prejudice, stigma and fundamental rights and freedoms.

Ways to use the reading " Home was a Horse Stall" about the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II in the classroom

In this lesson students learn about the Reconstruction Amendments (13th, 14th and 15th) that abolished slavery, guaranteed African American citizenship and secured men the right to vote.

On November 20, 1969, Alcatraz island became the unlikely stage for a landmark event in the Native American rights movement.

Educator and author Mara Sapon-Shevin offers strategies and ideas to help students become allies -- people who stand with or for others.

America by the Numbers with Maria Hinojosa, a PBS documentary series produced by the Harlem-based Futuro Media Group, reveals how dramatic changes in the composition and demographics of the United States are playing out across the country.

Before conducting this activity, educators may want to discuss historical information about racism and diversity issues. In the story The Sneetches, written by Dr. Seuss, yellow bird-like creatures take students on an adventure where green stars become the symbol of discrimination and privilege. After reading the story aloud, let students participate in the following activities that can be adapted with or without the story.

Most students are familiar with at least some portraits—pictures or paintings of people—but perhaps they have not had a chance to think about the way a portrait shows a person. In fact, portraitists make a lot of choices when they execute their work. These choices include how the artists see the subject, and how the artists want the subject to be seen by others. It is important for young children to develop a critical eye when looking at portraits, just as they are developing critical thinking skills in other areas. In particular, this lesson helps children start thinking about what a portrait can show about race and racial stereotypes, and how portraitists might reinforce or fight against stereotypes through their art.

In this lesson Students reflect on the ways in which they have experienced or participated in bias based on physical size and appearance, and the ways in which expectations about body image and appearance in our society affect us. They learn about media literacy and examine media images for "attractiveness messages" that consciously and unconsciously impact our attitudes and behavior toward others. Students conclude the lesson by exploring ways to get beyond appearance as a dominant force in their social lives.

Several years ago Birmingham resident Jim Rotch was driving home from a retreat when he scribbled some words on a pad as he drove. Those words became known as The Birmingham Pledge. What seemed a solitary, simple act has grown into a worldwide movement.

The Birmingham Pledge is one effort of the Birmingham community to recognize the dignity and worth of every individual and to share with the world one community’s commitment to eliminate racial prejudice in the lives of all people.

Objectives: Students will learn ways in which the city of Birmingham still works for equity and justice;
students will explore how their own city can join Birmingham in the struggle to eliminate racism wherever it exists; and
students will sign The Birmingham Pledge.

Photocopy or create a large map of the school, including the school grounds and the cafeteria. Then have students identify places that cliques or self-segregating groups gather.

Ideas and suggested activities to commemorate the life of Louis Braille are presented by Teaching Tolerance.

Morning Meetings help students and teachers connect and start the day on a positive note.

This collection of primary resources and corresponding activities sheds light on the endurance of peaceful protesters in Montgomery, Ala., who overturned an unjust law.