black history essay prompt

• CORE CURRICULUM
• LITERACY > CORE CURRICULUM > Into Literature, 6-12" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Into Literature, 6-12" aria-label="Into Literature, 6-12"> Into Literature, 6-12
• LITERACY > CORE CURRICULUM > Into Reading, K-6" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Into Reading, K-6" aria-label="Into Reading, K-6"> Into Reading, K-6
• INTERVENTION
• LITERACY > INTERVENTION > English 3D, 4-12" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="English 3D, 4-12" aria-label="English 3D, 4-12"> English 3D, 4-12
• LITERACY > INTERVENTION > Read 180, 3-12" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Read 180, 3-12" aria-label="Read 180, 3-12"> Read 180, 3-12
• LITERACY > READERS > Hero Academy Leveled Libraries, PreK-4" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Hero Academy Leveled Libraries, PreK-4" aria-label="Hero Academy Leveled Libraries, PreK-4"> Hero Academy Leveled Libraries, PreK-4
• LITERACY > READERS > HMH Reads Digital Library, K-5" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="HMH Reads Digital Library, K-5" aria-label="HMH Reads Digital Library, K-5"> HMH Reads Digital Library, K-5
• LITERACY > READERS > inFact Leveled Libraries, K-5" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="inFact Leveled Libraries, K-5" aria-label="inFact Leveled Libraries, K-5"> inFact Leveled Libraries, K-5
• LITERACY > READERS > Rigby PM, K-5" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Rigby PM, K-5" aria-label="Rigby PM, K-5"> Rigby PM, K-5
• LITERACY > READERS > Science & Engineering Leveled Readers, K-5" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Science & Engineering Leveled Readers, K-5" aria-label="Science & Engineering Leveled Readers, K-5"> Science & Engineering Leveled Readers, K-5
• SUPPLEMENTAL
• LITERACY > SUPPLEMENTAL > A Chance in the World SEL, 8-12" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="A Chance in the World SEL, 8-12" aria-label="A Chance in the World SEL, 8-12"> A Chance in the World SEL, 8-12
• LITERACY > SUPPLEMENTAL > Amira Learning, K-6" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Amira Learning, K-6" aria-label="Amira Learning, K-6"> Amira Learning, K-6
• LITERACY > SUPPLEMENTAL > Classcraft, K-8" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Classcraft, K-8" aria-label="Classcraft, K-8"> Classcraft, K-8
• LITERACY > SUPPLEMENTAL > JillE Literacy, K-3" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="JillE Literacy, K-3" aria-label="JillE Literacy, K-3"> JillE Literacy, K-3
• LITERACY > SUPPLEMENTAL > Waggle, K-8" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Waggle, K-8" aria-label="Waggle, K-8"> Waggle, K-8
• LITERACY > SUPPLEMENTAL > Writable, 3-12" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Writable, 3-12" aria-label="Writable, 3-12"> Writable, 3-12
• LITERACY > SUPPLEMENTAL > ASSESSMENT" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="ASSESSMENT" aria-label="ASSESSMENT"> ASSESSMENT
• MATH > CORE CURRICULUM > Arriba las Matematicas, K-8" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Arriba las Matematicas, K-8" aria-label="Arriba las Matematicas, K-8"> Arriba las Matematicas, K-8
• MATH > CORE CURRICULUM > Go Math!, K-6" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Go Math!, K-6" aria-label="Go Math!, K-6"> Go Math!, K-6
• MATH > CORE CURRICULUM > Into Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, 8-12" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Into Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, 8-12" aria-label="Into Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, 8-12"> Into Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, 8-12
• MATH > CORE CURRICULUM > Into Math, K-8" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Into Math, K-8" aria-label="Into Math, K-8"> Into Math, K-8
• MATH > CORE CURRICULUM > Math Expressions, PreK-6" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Math Expressions, PreK-6" aria-label="Math Expressions, PreK-6"> Math Expressions, PreK-6
• MATH > CORE CURRICULUM > Math in Focus, K-8" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Math in Focus, K-8" aria-label="Math in Focus, K-8"> Math in Focus, K-8
• MATH > SUPPLEMENTAL > Classcraft, K-8" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Classcraft, K-8" aria-label="Classcraft, K-8"> Classcraft, K-8
• MATH > SUPPLEMENTAL > Waggle, K-8" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Waggle, K-8" aria-label="Waggle, K-8"> Waggle, K-8
• MATH > INTERVENTION > Math 180, 5-12" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Math 180, 5-12" aria-label="Math 180, 5-12"> Math 180, 5-12
• SCIENCE > CORE CURRICULUM > Into Science, K-5" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Into Science, K-5" aria-label="Into Science, K-5"> Into Science, K-5
• SCIENCE > CORE CURRICULUM > Into Science, 6-8" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Into Science, 6-8" aria-label="Into Science, 6-8"> Into Science, 6-8
• SCIENCE > CORE CURRICULUM > Science Dimensions, K-12" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Science Dimensions, K-12" aria-label="Science Dimensions, K-12"> Science Dimensions, K-12
• SCIENCE > READERS > inFact Leveled Readers, K-5" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="inFact Leveled Readers, K-5" aria-label="inFact Leveled Readers, K-5"> inFact Leveled Readers, K-5
• SCIENCE > READERS > Science & Engineering Leveled Readers, K-5" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Science & Engineering Leveled Readers, K-5" aria-label="Science & Engineering Leveled Readers, K-5"> Science & Engineering Leveled Readers, K-5
• SCIENCE > READERS > ScienceSaurus, K-8" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="ScienceSaurus, K-8" aria-label="ScienceSaurus, K-8"> ScienceSaurus, K-8
• SOCIAL STUDIES > CORE CURRICULUM > HMH Social Studies, 6-12" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="HMH Social Studies, 6-12" aria-label="HMH Social Studies, 6-12"> HMH Social Studies, 6-12
• SOCIAL STUDIES > SUPPLEMENTAL > Writable" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Writable" aria-label="Writable"> Writable
• For Teachers
• PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT > For Teachers > Coachly" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Coachly" aria-label="Coachly"> Coachly
• PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT > For Teachers > Teacher's Corner" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Teacher's Corner" aria-label="Teacher's Corner"> Teacher's Corner
• PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT > For Teachers > Live Online Courses" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Live Online Courses" aria-label="Live Online Courses"> Live Online Courses
• For Leaders
• PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT > For Leaders > The Center for Model Schools (formerly ICLE)" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="The Center for Model Schools (formerly ICLE)" aria-label="The Center for Model Schools (formerly ICLE)"> The Center for Model Schools (formerly ICLE)
• MORE > undefined > Assessment" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Assessment" aria-label="Assessment"> Assessment
• MORE > undefined > Early Learning" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Early Learning" aria-label="Early Learning"> Early Learning
• MORE > undefined > English Language Development" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="English Language Development" aria-label="English Language Development"> English Language Development
• MORE > undefined > Homeschool" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Homeschool" aria-label="Homeschool"> Homeschool
• MORE > undefined > Intervention" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Intervention" aria-label="Intervention"> Intervention
• MORE > undefined > Literacy" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Literacy" aria-label="Literacy"> Literacy
• MORE > undefined > Mathematics" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Mathematics" aria-label="Mathematics"> Mathematics
• MORE > undefined > Professional Development" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Professional Development" aria-label="Professional Development"> Professional Development
• MORE > undefined > Science" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Science" aria-label="Science"> Science
• MORE > undefined > undefined" data-element-type="header nav submenu">
• MORE > undefined > Social and Emotional Learning" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Social and Emotional Learning" aria-label="Social and Emotional Learning"> Social and Emotional Learning
• MORE > undefined > Social Studies" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Social Studies" aria-label="Social Studies"> Social Studies
• MORE > undefined > Special Education" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Special Education" aria-label="Special Education"> Special Education
• MORE > undefined > Summer School" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Summer School" aria-label="Summer School"> Summer School
• BROWSE RESOURCES
• BROWSE RESOURCES > Classroom Activities" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Classroom Activities" aria-label="Classroom Activities"> Classroom Activities
• BROWSE RESOURCES > Customer Success Stories" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Customer Success Stories" aria-label="Customer Success Stories"> Customer Success Stories
• BROWSE RESOURCES > Digital Samples" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Digital Samples" aria-label="Digital Samples"> Digital Samples
• BROWSE RESOURCES > Events" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Events" aria-label="Events"> Events
• BROWSE RESOURCES > Grants & Funding" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Grants & Funding" aria-label="Grants & Funding"> Grants & Funding
• BROWSE RESOURCES > International" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="International" aria-label="International"> International
• BROWSE RESOURCES > Research Library" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Research Library" aria-label="Research Library"> Research Library
• BROWSE RESOURCES > Shaped - HMH Blog" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Shaped - HMH Blog" aria-label="Shaped - HMH Blog"> Shaped - HMH Blog
• BROWSE RESOURCES > Webinars" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Webinars" aria-label="Webinars"> Webinars
• CUSTOMER SUPPORT
• CUSTOMER SUPPORT > Contact Sales" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Contact Sales" aria-label="Contact Sales"> Contact Sales
• CUSTOMER SUPPORT > Customer Service & Technical Support Portal" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Customer Service & Technical Support Portal" aria-label="Customer Service & Technical Support Portal"> Customer Service & Technical Support Portal
• CUSTOMER SUPPORT > Platform Login" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Platform Login" aria-label="Platform Login"> Platform Login
• Learn about us
• Learn about us > About" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="About" aria-label="About"> About
• Learn about us > Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" aria-label="Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion"> Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Learn about us > Environmental, Social, and Governance" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Environmental, Social, and Governance" aria-label="Environmental, Social, and Governance"> Environmental, Social, and Governance
• Learn about us > News Announcements" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="News Announcements" aria-label="News Announcements"> News Announcements
• Learn about us > Our Legacy" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Our Legacy" aria-label="Our Legacy"> Our Legacy
• Learn about us > Social Responsibility" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Social Responsibility" aria-label="Social Responsibility"> Social Responsibility
• Learn about us > Supplier Diversity" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Supplier Diversity" aria-label="Supplier Diversity"> Supplier Diversity
• Join Us > Careers" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Careers" aria-label="Careers"> Careers
• Join Us > Educator Input Panel" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Educator Input Panel" aria-label="Educator Input Panel"> Educator Input Panel
• Join Us > Suppliers and Vendors" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Suppliers and Vendors" aria-label="Suppliers and Vendors"> Suppliers and Vendors
• Divisions > Center for Model Schools (formerly ICLE)" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Center for Model Schools (formerly ICLE)" aria-label="Center for Model Schools (formerly ICLE)"> Center for Model Schools (formerly ICLE)
• Divisions > Heinemann" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="Heinemann" aria-label="Heinemann"> Heinemann
• Divisions > NWEA" data-element-type="header nav submenu" title="NWEA" aria-label="NWEA"> NWEA
• Platform Login

SOCIAL STUDIES

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Activities & Lessons

8 Black History Month Writing Prompts

Illustration (featured from left to right): James Baldwin , Amy Sherald, Katherine Johnson, Kimberly Bryant, and Stevie Wonder

Black history should never be relegated to a date on a calendar. It is too intricately woven into the meaning of America. What would the United States be without the muscle, skill, and innovative thinking of its Black citizens?

Inventor and agricultural scientist George Washington Carver said, “When you do the common things in life in an uncommon way, you will command the attention of the world.” This quote captures the theme of a year-round focus on Black history in my fourth grade African-centered classroom. My students and I spend time marveling at the ingenuity of countless Black people who have faced, and continue to face, all too common dehumanizing circumstances and yet continue to rise.

I pose the question, “How are people who look like you overcoming problems in their daily life?” My students and I ground the question in three ways. First, we identify, research, and interview innovative people we know locally (caregivers, family members, friends, business owners, city officials). Then, we research national celebrities and other prominent figures. Finally, we explore the presence of Black ingenuity and innovation on a global scale.

Black History Month for my classroom is simply a time to recommit to the Black historical legacy of ingenuity and innovation in the face of racism and other systems of oppression. I hope these Black history writing prompts help you do the same with your class, in February and all year round.

Black History Month Journal Prompts

Introduce your students to the Black innovators highlighted here. Think of their experiences and perspectives as a springboard for students to write about their own lives. Note that the structure of each prompt asks students to do three things: delve into the life and accomplishments of a Black innovator; talk over a quote by or about the person; and finally, tackle a related writing prompt. Each prompt guides students into a particular type of writing, such as personal narrative, informative, or persuasive.

Black History Writing Prompt #1

Spotlight On: NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson Text Type: Personal Narrative

Background: Tell students that Katherine Johnson (1918–2020) was a mathematician for NASA. She calculated rocket paths for space missions. Her work was critical to the success of several human spaceflights, including the Friendship 7 mission that made astronaut John Glenn the first American to orbit Earth. Glenn’s flight marked a turning point in the space race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union (today, Russia). In 2015, President Barack Obama awarded Johnson the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her life’s work. The 2017 movie Hidden Figures tells the story of Johnson and two other unsung heroes of NASA’s early days.

Talk It Over: Tell students that in 1962, astronaut John Glenn requested that Johnson double check the computer-generated trajectory of Friendship 7’s Earth orbit. “If she says the numbers are good,” he declared, “I’m ready to go.” Ask: How do you know Glenn had confidence in Johnson? Do you think she had confidence in herself? What makes you say that?

Writing Prompt: Think about a time in your life when someone had confidence in you to solve a problem or complete a task. That person might be a family member, friend, teacher, coach, pastor, or even a stranger. Write a personal narrative about the experience. Be sure to describe the task and the effect that person’s confidence had on you. Include sensory details and an organized story structure.

Black History Writing Prompt #2

Spotlight On: Author James Baldwin Text Type: Persuasive/Opinion Writing

Background: Tell students that James Baldwin (1924–1987) wrote novels, essays, plays, and short stories that forced readers to confront racism in America. Baldwin lived during a time when our government wrote laws to keep Black and white people separated in public places, like schools, restaurants, and churches. The impact of racism drove Baldwin to move to France. His 1953 novel Go Tell It on the Mountain is considered an American classic.

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Baldwin: "I knew I was Black, of course, but I also knew I was smart. I didn't know how I would use my mind, or even if I could, but that was the only thing I had to use.” Ask: Why do you think Baldwin says he didn’t know if he could use his mind? (Baldwin is saying that racism tries to make Black people feel like they aren’t smart. He eventually used his mind to become a great writer who fought against racism with his words.) How can we apply Baldwin’s quote to education? How might racism affect what we’re taught in school? What effect might it have on the way students learn?

Writing Prompt: Write a five-paragraph persuasive essay arguing for ways to improve your least favorite or favorite subject. Be sure to explain how the change will help improve your motivation and thinking. When you are finished editing and revising, send the essay to your parents, teacher, principal, superintendent, and school board.

Black History Writing Prompt #3

Spotlight On: Actor/Writer/Producer Tyler Perry Text Type: Informative Writing

Background: Tell students that Tyler Perry (1969–) is the mastermind behind popular plays, movies, TV shows, and New York Times bestselling books. He portrayed his most famous character, Madea, in plays that eventually made the leap to the big screen, with the franchise grossing more than $500 million. Popular TV shows like The Walking Dead and blockbuster movies like Black Panther were shot at Tyler Perry Studios, in Atlanta, Georgia. But Perry’s success belies a difficult childhood that almost destroyed him. His father often beat him, which Perry says led him to attempt suicide. In his early 20s, he saw an episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show in which Oprah described the therapeutic effect of writing. Perry started writing down everything that happened to him. He believes writing saved his life.

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Perry: “ My biggest success is getting over the things that have tried to destroy and take me out of this life. Those are my biggest successes. It has nothing to do with work.” Remind students that Perry uses writing as therapy. Ask: Do you agree with Perry’s idea of “success”? Explain.

Writing Prompt: Think about a hobby or interest that brings you calm, such as cooking, coding, dancing, or drawing. Write an informative essay, create a brochure, or design a PowerPoint presentation that describes the benefits of the activity and how it affects your state of mind.

Black History Writing Prompt #4

Spotlight On: Artist Amy Sherald Text Type: Poetry

Background: Tell students that First Lady Michelle Obama chose Amy Sherald (1973–) to paint Mrs. Obama’s official portrait for the National Portrait Gallery shortly after Sherald won the 2016 Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition. Mrs. Obama described an immediate connection upon meeting Sherald, feeling "blown away by the boldness of her colors and the uniqueness of her subject matter.” But not everyone likes such bold paintings. Sherald received quite a bit of flack for the portrait. Her vision of how to paint the first African-American First Lady wasn’t typical, and this is partly what makes her an innovator.

Talk It Over: Read aloud Sherald’s response to those who didn’t understand her painting style: “Some people like their poetry to rhyme. Some people don’t; that’s fine. It’s cool.” Ask: What is Sherald saying about people’s taste in art? How does Sherald view art? What do you think about the portrait of the First Lady ? What do you think people objected to?

Writing Prompt: Write a poem of three or more lines, rhyming or not, that captures an emotion in vivid detail. Think about a strong emotion you’ve experienced lately. It could be how you felt when you saw Sherald’s portrait of First Lady Michelle Obama, or the feeling of learning how people reacted against it. If you’d like to write about something more personal, consider writing about how you felt on a recent Zoom call, or when a parent or caregiver reprimanded or praised you. What emotion did you feel? Close your eyes and try to visualize what you remember.

Black History Writing Prompt #5

Spotlight On: Electrical Engineer Kimberly Bryant Text Type: Textual Analysis

Background: Tell students that Kimberly Bryant (1967–) is an electrical engineer who worked in biotechnology for companies including Genentech, Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, and Merck. In 2011, she founded the nonprofit Black Girls Code to teach basic programming to Black girls who are underrepresented in technology careers. Bryant has been listed as one of the "25 Most Influential African-Americans in Technology."

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Kimberly Bryant: “You can absolutely be what you can't see! That's what innovators and disruptors do.” Ask: What makes Bryant an innovator and disrupter? How could you be an innovator and create solutions to the problems you see around you? How could you disrupt unfairness that you see? Could you use a hobby or talent to innovate and disrupt?

Writing Prompt: Visit the Black Girls Code site. Scan the homepage and write down the following:

• Company slogan
• One-sentence summary of the company’s vision
• The headline of one article that appears on the site
• A summary of the article’s central points
• A description of the article’s purpose (i.e. entertain, inform, persuade, examine/explore an issue, describe/report, instruct), along with evidence from the text to support your claim

Learn code or create your own website that highlights the thing you love to do and that makes you different from everyone else. You might consider using the website as a way to innovate or disrupt. Keep the website updated weekly.

Black History Writing Prompt #6

Spotlight On: Singer/Songwriter Stevie Wonder Text Type: Research Writing

Background: Stevie Wonder (1950–) is a pioneer in the music industry who never let his blindness stop him from achieving anything he wanted in life. To date, the singer-songwriter has picked up 25 Grammy Awards and an Oscar, sold over 100 million records worldwide, and has been inducted into the Rock & Roll and Songwriters Halls of Fame. The release of his song "Happy Birthday" in 1980, followed by tireless campaigning, led to the establishment of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in 1986. A tech-savvy musician himself, Wonder has pushed for advancements that make technology accessible for blind and deaf people.

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Stevie Wonder: “Do you know, it's funny, but I never thought of being blind as a disadvantage, and I never thought of being Black as a disadvantage.” Ask: Does this quote surprise you? Why or why not? Why might some people see being blind or Black as a disadvantage? How might technology help address disability or racism?

Writing Prompt: Think about the problems we face today—from racism to blindness to COVID-19, cancer, global warming, bullying, over-policing, you name it. Choose one of the problems and conduct research to answer these questions:

• What is the problem? Describe it.
• Who is this problem affecting most?
• Who are the experts trying to solve the problem?
• What technology are they creating to solve the problem?
• What are the pros and cons of the technology?

Black History Writing Prompt #7

Spotlight On: Rapper Kendrick Lamar Text Type: Interview

Background: Tell students that Kendrick Lamar (1987–) has won 13 Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, five Billboard Music Awards, a Brit Award, 11 MTV Video Music Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, and an Academy Award nomination. In 2015, he received the California State Senate's Generational Icon award. Three of his studio albums have been listed in Rolling Stone 's "The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time (2020)."

Talk It Over: Share this quote by Lamar with your students: “It took a long time for people to embrace us (rappers)—people outside of our community, our culture—to see this not just as vocal lyrics, but to see that this is really pain, this is really hurt, this is really true stories of our lives on wax.” Ask: Why do you think people like different genres of music? Why do you think some people, after 50 years, still don’t view rap as real music?

Writing Prompt: Think about three people you know who are different in some way. Their differences can be based on demographics like race, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or ability. Choose one demographic (age, for example) and interview three people based on that demographic (a child, an adult, an elderly person) using these two questions:

• What is your favorite genre of music?
• What do you think about rap music?

Record your interview and type your transcript. Present your findings to the class in the form of a newscast using a video recording app. Your newscast should be pre-recorded. Finally, record 30 seconds at the end talking about how each interviewees’ perspective is similar and different.

Black History Writing Prompt #8

Spotlight On: Science Fiction Author Octavia E. Butler Text Type: Science Fiction Writing

Background: Tell students that Octavia E. Butler (1947–2006) wrote science fiction novels that blend mysticism, mythology, and African American spiritualism. Her work has garnered numerous awards. In 1995, she became the first science fiction writer to receive a MacArthur Foundation award, or “genius grant,” and in 2000 she won a PEN Award for lifetime achievement. In 2010, she was inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame.

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Octavia Butler: “If you want a thing — truly want it, want it so badly that you need it as you need air to breathe, then unless you die, you will have it. Why not? It has you…” Ask: What does she mean when she talks about wanting a thing the way you need air to breathe? What is she telling us about the things that drive us?

Writing Prompt: Imagine that it’s 30 years in the future. Will people be living on Mars? Will we have flying cars? Will there still be poverty, or racism? Write a one-page fantasy story in which the Earth is threatened with certain destruction. You as the main character must use your superpower to save the world. Your superpower is whatever you are passionate about—music, debating, helping people, athletics, acting, writing, designing, or something else entirely. You can do things with your superpower that are unreal. The human race is counting on you. Good luck!

More Ideas for Black History Writing Prompts

This post focused on Black ingenuity and innovation. Have any other theme ideas for Black History Month writing prompts? Share them with us on Twitter ( @TheTeacherRoom ) or Facebook .

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of HMH.

Try Writable to support your ELA curriculum, district benchmarks, and state standards with more than 600 fully customizable writing assignments and rubrics for students in Grades 3-12.

Download our FREE 2022–2023 calendar of activities.

• Activities & Lessons
• Social Studies
• Grades 9-12

Related Reading

Podcast: Embracing Data and Planning with It Feat. Latonia Grant in GA on Teachers in America

Jennifer Corujo Shaped Editor

April 18, 2024

10 Effective Teaching Strategies for Every Classroom

Shaped Contributor

9 Summer Math Activities: Preventing Math Summer Slide

Shaped Executive Editor

April 11, 2024

Black History Month Writing Prompts for Students

Let’s celebrate Black History Month! As educators, parents, and mentors, we understand the importance of fostering a sense of pride, knowledge, and cultural awareness in the hearts and minds of our students.

We’ve compiled a collection of engaging Black History Month writing prompts for students.

These writing prompts are designed to spark curiosity, encourage reflection, and inspire young minds to explore the rich tapestry of African American history.

Check out our top list of Black History Month writing prompts for students.  This list features excellent writing prompts suitable for Kindergarten, elementary school , and middle school students . Let’s get writing!

43 Black History Month Writing Prompts

The month of February is Black History Month in the United States.

This is a time for African-Americans to celebrate their achievements and role within the U.S.

Studying Black History is an important part of your education because it provides historical context for the journey of African-Americans while also highlighting the problems they still face today.

Below, you will find a list of prompts that will help improve your writing skills as well as gain a deeper understanding of Black history.

Using This Guide

First and foremost, it’s important to research your topic when writing about historical events or holidays. 

Once you’ve done that, you can use these prompts however you’d like.

But if you’re unsure of just how to get started, here is a list of creative ways that you can use this guide:

• Pick a random number and use that prompt.
• Choose a topic you’re unsure about. Research it, and then write about it.
• Ask a friend or family member to pick a prompt for you.

Time to Pick a Prompt

• Why is George Washington Carver an important figure in Black history?
• Do you think schools should teach more Black history?
• One way that I can help prevent discrimination is…
• Pick a Black woman in history, and write a few paragraphs about her.
• Who is your favorite Black musician? Why?
• Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech is arguably his most notable speech. What is your dream for the world?
• If you could interview one influential Black person, who would it be? What would you ask them?
• Name two inventions created by Black Americans. How are they significant in your life today?
• What do you think a world without racism could look like?
• Who is your favorite Black actor? Why?
• Research a Black poet, and write about what your favorite poem means to you.
• How did the Civil Rights Movement change the world?
• Why do we celebrate Black history?
• How would you feel if you weren’t allowed to go to the same places or use the same things as your friend?
• What would you have done to help Harriet Tubman?
• Why do you think it took so long for the U.S. to have a Black president?
• Describe racism in your own words.
• Write a poem about racial injustice.
• What are some creative ways your class or school could celebrate Black History Month?
• Who is your favorite Black athlete? Why?
• What inspires you to be a better person?
• Why was Rosa Parks an influential person in American History?
• Pick a local Black-owned business, and write an advertisement for them.
• Write a few paragraphs about why the Black Lives Matter movement is an important step toward equality.
• Write about a time when you were treated unfairly for something that is out of your control. How did you feel?
• Does your family talk about racism?
• What is the most important thing you’ve learned during Black History Month?
• What do you think it would have been like to be at the Emancipation Proclamation speech?
• In what ways do you think the media incorrectly depicts Black Americans?
• Research Ruth Lloyd, and write 3-4 paragraphs about what you’ve learned.
• Write a poem about segregation.
• Research the Harlem Renaissance. What do you think is the most important cultural contribution to come from it?
• Write 3-4 paragraphs about the significance of Kamala Harris as the Vice President.
• Read a book with a Black main character and write a review about it.
• Do you think civil disobedience is ever okay?
• How has life for Black Americans changed in the last 10 years? 15 years? 30 years?
• Pick a historical park or monument that commemorates Black history, and write a few paragraphs about its significance.
• Who is one prominent figure in Black history that you think everyone should know about?
• Click here and read about an important person in Black history. What are some ways their impact can be seen today?
• Why was February chosen for Black History Month?
• Who is your favorite Black author? Why?
• Besides Black History Month, is one way that the U.S. celebrates Black history?
• Who do you think is the most influential person in Black history? Why?

What’s Next?

If you enjoyed these writing prompts and want to try more, we’ve got you covered!

We also have resources for teachers and parents, covering a multitude of subjects.

If you are looking for a particular subject and can’t find it, let us know – there’s every chance we’ll be inspired to create what you’re looking for!

We’d love to hear from you.

Black History Essay Topics

• Writing Essays
• Writing Research Papers
• English Grammar
• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Black history is full of fascinating stories, rich culture, great art, and courageous acts that were undertaken within unthinkable circumstances. While Civil Rights events are the most common themes in our studies, we should resist equating Black history only with Civil Rights-era history. This list contains 50 prompts that might lead you into some interesting and little-known information about Black American history.

Note: Your first challenge in studying some of the topics below is finding resources. When conducting an internet search, be sure to place quotation marks around your search term (try different variations) to narrow your results.

• Black American newspapers
• Black Inventors
• Black soldiers in the American Revolution
• Black soldiers in the Civil War
• Buffalo Soldiers
• Buying time
• Camp Logan Riots
• Clennon Washington King, Jr.
• Coffey School of Aeronautics
• Crispus Attucks
• Domestic labor strikes in the South
• Finding lost family members after emancipation
• First African Baptist Church
• Formerly enslaved business owners
• Freedom's Journal
• Gospel music
• Gullah heritage
• Harlem Hellfighters
• Harlem Renaissance
• Harriet Tubman
• Historically Black Colleges
• History of rock-and-roll
• Jumping the broom
• Manumission papers
• Maroon villages in the eighteenth century
• Motown Records
• Multi-cultural pirate ships
• Narratives by Enslaved People
• Otelia Cromwell
• Ownership of property by enslaved people
• Purchasing freedom
• Ralph Waldo Tyler
• Register of Free Persons of Color
• Secret schools in antebellum America
• Sherman's March followers
• Susie King Taylor
• The Amistad
• The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters
• The Communist Party (involvement)
• The Great Migration
• The Haitian Revolution
• Tuskegee Airmen
• Underground Railroad
• Urban enslavement (related to buying time)
• Wilberforce College, Ohio
• Celebrating Black History Month
• Important Cities in Black History
• What Is Black History Month and How Did It Begin?
• Black History and Women's Timeline: 1900–1919
• Black History Timeline: 1700 - 1799
• Black History Timeline: 1910–1919
• Biography of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Black Historian
• Black History Timeline: 1865–1869
• Black History Month Printables
• Black History Timeline: 1920–1929
• Little Known Important Black Americans
• Black History and Women's Timeline: 1920-1929
• Important Black Women in American History
• Black History and Women Timeline 1870-1899
• Black History Timeline: 1940–1949
• Black History from 1950–1959

Black History Month Journal Prompts

💾 Print or download a free PDF copy of this page:

Explore our diverse range of Black History Month journal prompts. Encourage thoughtful reflection and deepen your understanding of African-American history and culture through our inspiring writing ideas.

Celebrating Black History Month can be an enlightening and empowering journey. One of the engaging ways to participate, reflect, and learn more during this period is through journaling.

In this article, we’re excited to share a range of Black History Month journal prompts to stimulate your writing adventures. Whether you aim to deepen your understanding, express solidarity, or simply experience the healing process of writing, our thoughtfully curated prompts are here to assist you.

So, grab your journal, find a serene space, and let’s embark on this path of historical exploration and personal growth together. 🤗

Influential Figures In Black History

Focusing on Influential Figures in Black History when creating journal prompts for Black History Month allows us to reflect on their immense contributions and inspire us to continue their legacy. Here are 20 focal prompts that are centred around these significant individuals:

• Describe the impact Dr.Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech had on the civil rights movement.
• Write about the strategies Harriet Tubman used to lead slaves to freedom and how they showed bravery.
• Discuss the literary contributions of Maya Angelou and how they influenced you.
• Reflect on the role Rosa Parks played in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. What compelled her act of defiance?
• Imagine a conversation with Barack Obama about his experiences as the first Black President of the United States.
• Write about the importance of Malcolm X to black empowerment and pan-Africanism.
• Discuss how the music of Louis Armstrong contributed to the Harlem Renaissance.
• Write a letter to Jackie Robinson expressing your thoughts about his struggle for racial equality in sports.
• Describe how the work of Thurgood Marshall as a Supreme Court Justice influenced the legal system.
• Write about the contributions of Madam C.J. Walker to the beauty industry and how she used her wealth for philanthropy.
• Reflect on the leadership qualities of Nelson Mandela and how they inspire you.
• Discuss the influence of Frederick Douglass' abolitionist work during the 19th century.
• Reflect on a poem by Langston Hughes and how it speaks to the condition of Black life in America.
• Write on the significance of Muhammad Ali's resistance to participating in the Vietnam War.
• Write about how Mary McLeod Bethune used education as a tool for advancing civil rights.
• Discuss the all-around global cultural impact of explores and boxers like Jack Johnson.
• Describe the change brought about by W.E.B. Du Bois through his civil rights activism.
• Correlate the potent influence of Ella Fitzgerald's music on society and you.
• Reflect on Sojourner Truth’s feminist and abolitionist work, and its importance in current day.
• Write about the life and work of James Baldwin, discussing the impact of his literature on understanding race and sexuality.

The Civil Rights Movement

Journaling about the Civil Rights Movement can deepen understanding of this critical period in black history and encourage reflection on its relevance today. Here are 20 journal prompts about the Civil Rights Movement:

• Reflect on Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech. How does it resonate with you?
• Write about the significance of the Montgomery Bus Boycott in the fight for civil rights.
• Describe the events and impact of the March on Washington. Why was it a critical moment in the Civil Rights Movement?
• List three key figures in the Civil Rights Movement and what you admire about them.
• Consider Rosa Parks' act of defiance. What personal strengths do you think she drew upon in that moment?
• Write a diary entry imagining you are a participant in one of the sit-ins or Freedom Rides.
• Explore how the Civil Rights Movement affected or changed the race relations in your community.
• If you could ask any civil rights leader a question, who would you choose and what would you ask?
• Contemplate the use of nonviolent protest. Do you believe it was effective in the Civil Rights Movement?
• Write down your thoughts about the role music and art played in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Discuss the part children and teenagers played in the movement during the Children's Crusade in Birmingham, 1963.
• Reflect on the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Why was it a crucial piece of legislation for civil rights?
• Describe your thoughts about the sacrifices made by those involved in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Imagine being a civil rights activist during that era. How would you feel about the risks involved?
• Write about the concept of "freedom summer" and its influence on the movement.
• Delve into the significance of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. How do you think America changed after it was passed?
• Reflect on how the Civil Rights Movement has contributed to your personal life and understanding of justice.
• Write about how you feel the Civil Rights Movement has shaped racial equality today.
• Reflect on Malcolm X's role in the Civil Rights movement, and the contrast between his approach and Martin Luther King Jr.'s.
• Write down three lessons from the Civil Rights Movement that can be applied to challenges faced today.

Modern Black Pioneers

Exploring the theme of Modern Black Pioneers within Black History Month journaling can inspire a deep appreciation of their impactful contributions and encourage introspection on their influential roles in shaping today's society. Here are 20 prompts to delve into the narrative of these noteworthy individuals:

• Write about a modern Black pioneer whose story inspires you personally. Why does their journey resonate with you?
• Reflect on the impact of Michelle Obama's leadership and her influence in the role of First Lady.
• Describe your thoughts on the cultural significance of Beyoncé’s music and her influence in the entertainment industry.
• How did the Black Lives Matter movement shape your understanding of racial justice? Write about it.
• Journal about the influence of Ava DuVernay's filmmaking on our perception of Black history.
• Imagine a conversation with Barack Obama in the early days of his presidency. What would you discuss?
• Reflect on the scientific contributions of Neil deGrasse Tyson and his influence in popularizing science.
• Write a letter of gratitude to Stacey Abrams for her work in promoting voter rights.
• Study the literature of Toni Morrison. How does her writing influence your perception of Black culture?
• What impact has the athletic success and activism of Serena Williams had on you?
• Map out a timeline of Oprah Winfrey's career. How does her journey inspire you?
• Explore the legacy of Chadwick Boseman. How has his contribution to cinematography influenced perceptions of Black heroes?
• Describe how the work of modern Black pioneers in the fields of your interest has shaped your career or life choices.
• Imagine being an adviser to Kamala Harris, the first Black female Vice President. What advice would you give?
• Think about the initiatives taken by LeBron James off the basketball court, like opening a school. Write about the significance of such actions.
• Write a tribute to Black healthcare workers and researchers fighting COVID-19 and their contribution to society.
• Reflect on your feelings about the historic appointment of Lloyd Austin as the first Black Secretary of Defense.
• Examine the roles played by Black pioneers in the tech industry, like Tristan Walker or Kimberly Bryant. How have they influenced the industry?
• Write about a local Black pioneer in your community and their impact on you or your community.
• Journal about the significance of having Black pioneers in children's literature such as Jacqueline Woodson.

Historical Events Of Black History

Delving into historical events of Black History through journal prompts can deepen your comprehension and appreciation of the contributions, struggles, and triumphs of people of African descent. Here are 20 prompts to explore these moments from a personal perspective:

• Reflect on the significance of the Emancipation Proclamation. How might it have felt to hear this news for the first time?
• Write about the Civil Rights Movement. What would you have done if you had been in that scenario?
• Describe a scenario where you impacted the world as if you were Rosa Parks refusing to give up her bus seat.
• Imagine that you were Martin Luther King Jr delivering the 'I have a dream' speech. What additional dreams would you express?
• Write about the passing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 from the perspective of an African American living in the South.
• Put yourself in the shoes of the first African American student to attend a previously segregated school. Write about your first day.
• Compare the significance of the Harlem Renaissance and the Black Arts Movement to the cultural recognition of African Americans.
• Imagine experiencing the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in 1963. How would you create a positive change?
• Write a diary entry as if you were Barack Obama on the day he was elected president.
• What would you ask Malcolm X if you had a chance to talk to him?
• Write a letter thanking Harriet Tubman for her bravery in the Underground Railroad.
• Reflect on the Brown v. Board of Education ruling and its impact on modern day education.
• Describe what it would have been like to stand with Jesse Owens as he won four gold medals in the 1936 Olympics.
• Write about how the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr affected the momentum of the Civil Rights Movement.
• Imagine being part of the riot during the 1793 Yellow Fever Epidemic in Philadelphia, what would you have seen and felt?
• Write as if you were a solider in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment during the Civil War.
• Reflect on the Democratic National Convention of 1972 when Shirley Chisholm became the first African American woman to run for president.
• Write about participating in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march. What emotions would you experience?
• Write about the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement on your community, from your perspective.
• If you could sit in the audience while Maya Angelou recited her poem for the inauguration of Bill Clinton, how would you describe her performance?

Unsung Heroes Of Black History

In relation to journal prompts for Black History Month, Unsung Heroes of Black History provides an opportunity to delve into the lesser-known figures who have made an impact. Here are 20 writing prompts to explore these overlooked historical figures:

• Research an unsung hero from Black history and write a biographical sketch about their life.
• How did this unsung hero impact the society during their time?
• Write a letter of appreciation to your chosen unsung hero, outlining their contributions.
• Create a dialogue you would have with this unsung hero if you had the chance to meet them.
• List and reflect on five key lessons you've learned from this unsung hero's life.
• Imagining their life, describe a day in their shoes.
• Write a poem honoring their life and contributions.
• Analyze the societal challenges your chosen hero had to overcome. How did they navigate through them?
• Write about the legacy of this unsung hero. How is their work impacting today’s society?
• Imagine this unsung hero was your mentor. What advice or guidance might they give you?
• What characteristics and qualities do you admire in this unsung hero?
• Write a news article as if you were reporting on their achievements during their time.
• If you could ask them one question, what would it be and why?
• Reflect on how this unsung hero’s experience has changed your perspective on Black history.
• Visualize a landmark or monument dedicated to your unsung hero. Describe what it looks like and its significance.
• Write an obituary for this unsung hero highlighting their pursuits and accomplishments.
• How did the societal limitations or political climate of their time affect their work or mission?
• Write a personal reflection on how this unsung hero has influenced your understanding of resilience, courage, and determination.
• Draft an argument for why this unsung hero should be more widely recognized.
• Write a script for a short documentary film about the life and achievements of this unsung hero.

Intersectionality In Black History

Exploring intersectionality in black history through journal prompts allows us to study and understand the complex experiences of individuals who identify with multiple social, racial, and economic groups. To delve into this examination, here are 20 writing suggestions:

• Ponder on a historical example of intersectionality within black history. How have multiple identities intersected in this instance?
• Write about the experience of black women in the civil rights movement.
• Chronicle the journey of a notable black LGBTQ+ individual from history and their contribution to society.
• Address the influence of economic class within the black community throughout history.
• Sketch out how the intersection of black and immigrant identities has shaped societal progression.
• Reflect on the effects of the intersectionality of race and gender on a black individual in history.
• Write about a historic black figure who had a disability. How did their unique intersectional identity affect their experiences?
• Think about how a black religious leader has experienced intersectionality in their life and how it impacted their work.
• Discuss the relationship between race and mental health within the black community.
• Write about the intersectionality within a specific sporting event such as the Olympic Games.
• Think about the role that age has played in the black community's fight for justice, and how different generations have experienced intersectionality.
• Explore the intersection of black identity with indigenous identity, considering shared and unique experiences.
• Choose a piece of black literature that addresses intersectionality. Reflect on its messages and implications.
• Discuss intersectional discrimination within the legal system and how it has affected black communities.
• Think about how intersectionality impacts the education of black students, particularly those with additional identities (such as being LGBTQIA+ or having disabilities).
• Reflect on how intersectionality played a role in a specific event or era in black history.
• Write about the intersection of black identity and art. Discuss a black artist who has influenced a particular genre or medium.
• Reflect on the intersectionality of race, politics, and public policy throughout black history.
• Explore the intersection of black and Latino identities in the United States. Reflect on notable figures or events that highlight this intersectionality.
• Think about how intersectionality impacts black activism, considering the influence of different identities within movements.

Black Music And Its Influence

Deeply interwoven with the history and experiences of the African American community, Black music and its influence provides fertile ground for exploration and reflection. Here are 20 journal prompts focused on Black music and its influence:

• Write about a Black artist whose music has shaped the contemporary music landscape. What contributions did they make?
• Describe a Black music performance that deeply moved or inspired you. What about it spoke to you most?
• Reflect on the influence of Black gospel music on modern pop and rock genres.
• Detail how hip-hop, which emerged from Black communities, has influenced global culture.
• Write about a song lyric from a Black artist that resonates with you and explain why.
• Think about the role of spirituals and field hollers in the history of Black music. What feelings or messages were they often used to convey?
• Analyze the social and political messages you have noticed in the songs of Black artists.
• Explore the intersection of Black music and the Civil Rights Movement.
• Write a tribute to an influential Black musician who has passed away.
• Discuss how jazz, a genre with roots in the Black community, has evolved over time.
• Explore the way Black music has impacted the fashion industry.
• Identify three ways that Black music has influenced your personal taste in music.
• Discuss the role of Black music in promoting social justice issues.
• Write about the impact of Black music on the film industry, citing specific examples.
• Examine the influence of African rhythms and harmonies on various Western music genres.
• Discuss how Black music has created spaces for Black expression and identity.
• List three Black female artists who have broken barriers in the music industry.
• Reflect on how Black music continues to push boundaries and redefine norms in the music industry.
• Write about the importance of music in the Black family or community settings you have observed or experienced.
• Discuss the positive effects of the global recognition and appreciation of Black music.

Black Literature And Authors

Examining black literature and authors allows us to recognize and appreciate the rich tapestry of African-American cultural experiences, fueling insightful journal entries about race, resilience, and resistance. Here are 20 journal prompts around the theme of Black Literature and Authors:

• Write a short reflection on your favorite piece of Black Literature and how it resonated with you.
• Which black author's life story inspires you and why?
• How does Black Literature challenge the narratives of mainstream literature?
• Write a letter to an African-American author whose work significantly impacted your thinking.
• Discuss the themes you frequently come across in Black Literature.
• Which themes from Black Literature are still relevant today and why?
• How do black authors inspire you in your daily pursuits?
• Discuss a memorable quote from a Black author and explain why it's meaningful to you.
• Write a book review about a Black-authored book you recently read.
• Explore a lesser-known Black author whose work you feel should get more recognition.
• Write about a character from a Black literature piece that you particularly identified with.
• If you could have a conversation with a black author (dead or alive), who would it be and why?
• Discuss how Black Literature has evolved through different historical periods.
• Write about a Black literary work that shook or challenged your beliefs.
• How would you encourage someone unfamiliar with Black Literature to start exploring it?
• Analyze the writing style of your favorite Black author.
• Write about a moment in a Black authoured book that moved you emotionally.
• If you could change the plot of a Black-authored book, which one would it be and why?
• Discuss an inspiring journey of a character in a Black Literature piece.
• Write about a Black authoured book that you think should be mandatory reading in all schools and why.

Black Culture And Traditions

Exploring Black culture and traditions through journaling allows us to better understand and appreciate the richness and diversity of the Black experience. Here are 20 prompts to inspire your writing on Black Culture and Traditions:

• Reflect on a significant piece of Black literature you've read. What did you learn from it?
• Write about your favorite Black musician or musical style and its cultural impact.
• Describe a moment when you experienced a Black cultural tradition. How did it make you feel?
• List three ways Black culture has influenced mainstream society.
• Think about a historical event pertaining to Black culture. Describe its significance.
• Write a brief review of a film or play by a Black artist that has moved you.
• Explore the meaning and symbolism of a common Black cultural tradition or artifact.
• Think about the importance of family in Black culture. How does this resonate with you?
• Write about a significant Black author and their impact.
• Chronicle the evolution of a particular aspect of Black culture over the years.
• Discuss the influence of Black culture in the area of sports.
• Describe the importance of religious faith within the Black community.
• Reflect on the significance of soul food in Black culture.
• Write about the role of music in Black community gatherings.
• Discuss the impact of African diaspora on Black culture and traditions.
• Reflect on the role of Black culture in the civil rights movement.
• Describe the importance and role of historic Black universities.
• Write about the influence of Black fashion.
• Discuss the importance of oral tradition and story-telling in Black culture.
• Reflect on how Black culture and traditions have personally influenced you.

Impact Of Black History On Today’s Society

The significance of Black history plays a significant role in shaping today's society, prompting important discussions about race, equality, and justice. Here are 20 journal prompts that allow you to delve deeper into the impact of Black history on society:

• Reflect on a key figure from Black history who you believe has significantly impacted society. Why does this individual stand out to you?
• Write about a moment in Black history that shifted societal perceptions and led to large-scale changes.
• Describe how the Civil Rights Movement has impacted the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.
• List three lessons contemporary society can learn from the Harlem Renaissance.
• Think about a current social issue that is directly linked to historical injustices faced by Black people. Discuss potential solutions.
• Explore the influence of Black culture in the arts and entertainment industry.
• Reflect on the impact of Black-owned businesses on economic diversity.
• Write about how Black inventors have advanced technology and innovation.
• Discuss how Black Literature has shaped societal perceptions and conversations around racial bias.
• Consider the role that Hip Hop has played in expressing Black voices and challenging societal norms.
• Reflect on a significant legal case that advanced civil rights and led to societal change.
• Write about the influence of the Black Panther Party on today's social activism movements.
• Explore how the Black Lives Matter movement has reshaped societal perceptions and attitudes towards systematic racism.
• Discuss the importance of representation and the impact of seeing Black individuals in positions of power on society.
• Reflect on how Black history has influenced your personal understanding of racial justice and equality.
• Write about the ongoing battle for voting rights and its roots in the struggles of Black history.
• Discuss the role of Black soldiers in wars and how it influenced racial equality in the military.
• Reflect on how sports figures in Black history have used their platforms for societal change.
• Write about how Black Feminism has impacted the broader feminist movement.
• Discuss how the examination of Black history informs and impacts discussions about racial inequality today.

Prominent Black Scientists And Inventors

Highlighting the contributions and achievements of Prominent Black Scientists and Inventors through journal prompts can serve as a reflective exercise to honor Black History Month. Here are 20 prompts that can initiate these insightful explorations:

• Write about a Black scientist whose work has inspired you. How have they impacted your understanding of the world?
• Research and reflect on the work of a historical Black inventor. In what ways has their invention shaped society?
• Discuss the challenges faced by Dr. Patricia Bath, a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology.
• How did George Washington Carver's work with agricultural products influence today's farming techniques?
• Pen a letter to Lewis Latimer thanking him for his contributions to electric light.
• Write about your feelings after learning about the accomplishments of Dr. Mae Jemison, the first Black woman astronaut.
• Recount the achievements of Percy Lavon Julian in the field of chemical synthesis of medicinal drugs.
• Explore how Otis Boykin's creation of electrical devices found its way to modern technologies.
• Reflect on how Elijah McCoy's lubrication inventions can be perceived as metaphors for smoothing the way for future Black inventors.
• Consider the impact of Dr. Charles Drew's work on blood transfusions during World War II.
• How would you feel if you were Garret Morgan with the invention of the protection hood and signal improvements in traffic lights?
• Dwell upon the importance of Alexander Miles's enhancement of lift (elevator) safety.
• Put yourself in the shoes of Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, one of the first doctors to perform successful open-heart surgery.
• Reflect on your understanding of the past and present challenges faced by Black scientists and inventors.
• Express how you would have felt as Madam C.J. Walker while developing specialized hair products for African American women.
• Think about the role of Benjamin Banneker in shaping the layout of Washington D.C.
• Ponder about the contributions of chemist Alice Ball to the treatment of leprosy.
• Consider the path taken by Valarie Thomas in inventing the Illusion Transmitter and shaping NASA's use of technology.
• What qualities do you admire the most in Dr. Jane Cooke Wright, a trailblazer in cancer research?
• Imaginatively write a day in the life of Ernest Everett Just, a pioneering biologist in marine biology and embryology.

The Harlem Renaissance

Exploring The Harlem Renaissance through writing prompts invites us to immerse ourselves in the compelling era of Afro-American cultural, social, and artistic explosion. Here are twenty prompts to help you delve deeply into understanding and reflecting on The Harlem Renaissance period during your Black History Month journaling:

• Write about a prominent figure from The Harlem Renaissance and their contribution to black culture.
• Imagine attending a jazz club in Harlem during the 1920s. Describe your experience in detail.
• Choose a work of art (painting, poem, musical piece) from The Harlem Renaissance and write your personal interpretation of it.
• Reflect upon the role of The Harlem Renaissance in advancing civil rights.
• Chronicle a day in the life of a black artist during The Harlem Renaissance era.
• The Harlem Renaissance celebrated black culture and identity. How does this influence your own sense of identity?
• Write about how the Great Migration influenced the start of The Harlem Renaissance.
• Reflect on the importance of literature during The Harlem Renaissance. Choose a specific work to highlight.
• Describe the impact of The Harlem Renaissance on modern-day black culture.
• Write a poem inspired by Langston Hughes, a major figure of The Harlem Renaissance.
• Imagine and write a conversation between two figures from The Harlem Renaissance.
• Describe the role of women in The Harlem Renaissance. Choose a specific woman to focus on.
• Reflect on how The Harlem Renaissance challenged or confirmed stereotypes of the time.
• Discuss the impact of global events, like World War I, on The Harlem Renaissance.
• Write a scene set in a Harlem Renaissance theatre.
• Explore the end of The Harlem Renaissance: What caused it and what were its effects?
• Discuss a racial conflict during The Harlem Renaissance and its significance.
• Write a review of a speakeasy during The Harlem Renaissance as if you were a journalist of that time.
• Discuss the influence of The Harlem Renaissance on today's music and art.
• Reflect on a lesson you've learned from studying The Harlem Renaissance and how you can apply that in your life today.

The Black Power Movement

Diving deeper into the exploration of Black History, the Black Power Movement is a pivotal part in our journey of understanding, and these prompts will serve to guide thoughtful reflections and analyses. Here are 20 writing prompts themed around The Black Power Movement:

• Explore the factors that led to the birth of the Black Power Movement. What were they?
• Write a letter to one of the key leaders of the Black Power Movement. What would you say?
• Reflect on the impact of the Black Power Movement on society during its peak.
• Explain how the Black Power Movement has contributed to your personal understanding of race and racial justice.
• Detail one key event in the Black Power Movement and its effect on the larger society.
• Imagine being a part of the Black Power Movement. Write a journal entry for one day.
• How did the media of the time portray the Black Power Movement? Was this portrayal fair or biased?
• Draw parallels between the Black Power Movement and present-day movements for racial justice.
• Reflect on a speech or piece of literature that emerged from the Black Power Movement.
• Detail the role women played in the Black Power Movement.
• Examine the connection between the Black Power Movement and the broader Civil Rights Movement.
• Think about the concept of "Black is Beautiful" that came out of the Black Power Movement. What does this statement mean to you?
• The Black Power Movement has had profound cultural impacts. Write about one that you find particularly striking.
• How does education today address and represent the Black Power Movement?
• Discuss the reactions from different sectors of society to the Black Power Movement.
• Reflect on the primary criticisms of the Black Power Movement during its time. What were they?
• Write a poem inspired by the ideals and goals of the Black Power Movement.
• Imagine an interview with a person who was against the Black Power Movement. What questions would you ask?
• Write about the after-effects of the Black Power Movement seen today.
• Summarize your thoughts and feelings about the Black Power Movement after completing these prompts.

Black Soldiers And Their Contributions To Wars

Exploring the influence and impact of Black soldiers and their contributions to wars through journaling provides an opportunity to delve into lesser-known events and personal experiences reflected in Black History Month. Here are 20 journal prompts to inspire reflection on this important segment of history:

• Write about a Black soldier from a specific war and how they contributed to the fight.
• Reflect upon how Black soldiers have shaped the course of history.
• Detail a story of a Black regiment or battalion known for their valor.
• Compare the contributions of Black soldiers in two different wars.
• Imagine a day in the life of a Black soldier during wartime. What challenges did they face?
• Create a letter as if you're a Black soldier writing home. What might you say?
• What are some setbacks Black soldiers might have faced during their service due to prejudice?
• How did the sacrifices and achievements of Black soldiers pave the way for civil rights?
• Detail the story of a Black war hero and their impact post-war.
• Write about a specific war event where Black soldiers played a pivotal role.
• Reflect on the journey of a Black soldier from enlistment to combat.
• Consider what motivations a Black individual might have had for enlisting in the war.
• Describe the legacy left by the "Buffalo Soldiers," focusing on their contributions and historical significance.
• How did Black soldiers contribute to the wars despite being segregated in many cases?
• Illustrate the triumphs and trials of a fictional Black soldier in the war of your choice.
• Write about Black soldiers' contributions to US wars and how they were acknowledged or overlooked.
• How did Black veterans continue to fight for equality after they returned home?
• Detail an account of how Black soldiers were treated by their fellow soldiers of other races.
• Reflect on the accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.
• Imagine you're interviewing a Black soldier after a war. Detail the questions you'd ask and their potential responses.

Exploring Black Feminism

Exploring Black Feminism through journal prompts aligns our personal narratives with the wider socio-political movements, deepening an understanding of ourselves and our society. Here are 20 writing prompts to delve into various aspects of Black Feminism:

• Discuss a moment when you first engaged with Black Feminism. What inspired your curiosity?
• Write about a Black Feminist who has greatly influenced you. How has their work affected your life?
• Reflect on a moment when you first recognized the intersectionality of gender and race. How did this awareness change your perspective?
• How has Black Feminism influenced your outlook on social justice and equality?
• Create a letter to a young person in your life explaining the significance of Black Feminism.
• Write about a time when you had to confront discrimination or prejudice. How did you react and what role has Black Feminism played in shaping these reactions?
• Name three Black Feminist texts that have impacted you. What made them particularly striking?
• Discuss the influence of Black Feminism in shaping your career choices or professional trajectory.
• Reflect on a time you engaged in activism or advocacy. How did your understanding of Black Feminism influence your actions?
• Write about a societal stereotype that Black Feminism has helped you to debunk, and how this has improved your understanding of yourself.
• Jot down three ways in which you can promote Black Feminist ideas in your daily life.
• Reflect on how Black Feminism has influenced your appreciation of Black arts and culture.
• Imagine you're hosting a dinner party with your favorite Black Feminist icons. Who would you invite and why?
• Explore a time when your understanding of Black Feminism was challenged. What did you learn from this?
• Mention a Black Feminist quote that inspires you and explain what it means to you.
• Write about how Black Feminism can shape the future for young Black girls.
• Discuss the role of Black Feminism in shaping your personal relationships.
• Reflect on how Black Feminism has enriched your mental and emotional health.
• Explore your dreams for the future of Black Feminism. How do you envision its evolution?
• Write about the legacy you hope to leave through your engagement with Black Feminism.

Impact Of African Diaspora

Exploring the societal, cultural, and historical implications of the African Diaspora in your journal can imbue a richer understanding and appreciation of Black history. Here are 20 prompts to guide your reflections on the Impact of African Diaspora:

• Reflect on the resilience and strength shown by African Diaspora communities. How does this inspire you?
• Write about a cultural element (music, food, language, etc) that originated from the African Diaspora and has enriched today's society.
• Describe a significant figure from the African Diaspora who has contributed to the quality of life in their adopted country.
• Explore the impact of the African Diaspora on economic development in your country.
• Analyze the influence of African Diaspora in shaping the modern world's socio-cultural fabric.
• Write about a book, a movie, or a piece of art that accurately portrays the experience of African Diaspora.
• Discuss the role of African Diaspora in the Civil Rights Movement in America.
• Write about an incident from history or current events that highlights the struggles faced by the African Diaspora.
• How has the African Diaspora influenced your perception about racial and ethnic diversity?
• Reflect on key living conditions disparities that African Diaspora communities face in your country.
• Write about the psychological and emotional challenges of displacement as experienced by African Diaspora.
• Explore how the African Diaspora contributed to the evolution of your country's political landscape.
• How has African Diaspora influenced your country's entertainment industry?
• Discuss the disparities in education opportunities for African Diaspora communities and the potential solutions.
• Reflect on the strengths of African Diaspora communities and how they enrich our society.
• Write about a current event that directly impacts the African Diaspora community.
• Analyze the contributions of African Diaspora to science and technological advancements.
• Explore the unique challenges faced by African Diaspora women and their strategies for resilience.
• Discuss the African Diaspora's contributions to sports in your country.
• Write about the sense of identity among the African Diaspora and how it influences their lived experience.

Legacy Of Martin Luther King Jr.

Exploring the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. through journaling enables us to delve deeper into his incredible life and achievements, and the impact that he had on black history. Here are 20 journal prompts to help you navigate this exploration:

• Reflect on Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech. Do you believe his dream is being realized today?
• What do you consider Martin Luther King Jr.'s greatest accomplishment? Why?
• Write about a time when you've experienced or witnessed discrimination. How did Martin Luther King Jr.'s philosophy help you understand or cope with the event?
• What parts of Martin Luther King Jr.'s ideology or approach resonate the most with you and why?
• If you had the opportunity to meet Martin Luther King Jr., what do you think you would say to him?
• Martin Luther King Jr.'s methods were rooted in non-violence. How do you see this reflected in today's civil rights agenda?
• How do you think Martin Luther King Jr. would react to the Black Lives Matter Movement?
• Write a reflection on the effect Martin Luther King Jr. had on the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
• How has Martin Luther King Jr.'s teaching influenced your personal beliefs and values?
• Think about the phrase "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." What does this quote mean to you?
• If you could change one thing about the world in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy, what would it be?
• In what ways has Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision for a "Beloved Community", a society based on justice, equal opportunity and love of one's fellow human beings, influenced you?
• How influential do you think Martin Luther King Jr.'s message is among today's youth?
• Do we still need a figure like Martin Luther King Jr. today? Why or why not?
• Dissect your favourite Martin Luther King Jr. quote and explain what makes it so impactful.
• How much progress do you think has been made towards Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream of racial equality?
• Consider Martin Luther King Jr. in comparison to other civil rights leaders. How do they differ? How are they similar?
• Explore the concept of "civil disobedience," as employed by Martin Luther King Jr.
• What specific issues or causes do you think Martin Luther King Jr. would advocate for if he were alive today?
• Imagine Martin Luther King Jr.'s reaction to the world today. Would he be proud of our progress, or disappointed? Explain why.

African American Firsts In The 20th Century

The recognition and appreciation of African American firsts in the 20th Century provide exceptional insights and reflection points during Black History Month. Here are 20 related journal prompts:

• Reflect on the importance of having the first African American U.S President in the 20th century.
• Write about what Jackie Robinson breaking the baseball color barrier meant to you.
• Imagine being present during Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I have a dream" speech. What emotions would you have experienced?
• Describe how Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made female millionaire, influences your perception of business and entrepreneurship.
• List three ways in which Rosa Parks' refusal to move from her bus seat has impacted social movements today.
• Research more about Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice. What is the most inspiring aspect of his legacy?
• How might your life have been different if Hattie McDaniel hadn't been the first African American to win an Oscar? Explain.
• Write a conversation you would like to have with Bessie Coleman, the first African American female pilot.
• Record what you feel when you think about Arthur Ashe, the first African American man to win Wimbledon.
• Chronicle the achievements of Mae Jemison, the first African American woman astronaut, and share how those achievements inspire you.
• What lessons can you learn from Barack Obama being elected the first African American President in the 20th century?
• Imagine going to the theater to see Sidney Poitier become the first African American to win Best Actor at the Academy Awards.
• Reflect on the significance of Condoleezza Rice being appointed as the first African American woman Secretary of State.
• Write about the impact the Harlem Renaissance had on the United States and discuss how it affected the public view of African American culture.
• Study the legacy of Guion S. Bluford, the first African American in space. What can his journey teach us about perseverance and ambition?
• Imagine being on the sidelines watching Jesse Owens win four gold medals in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. What does his victory symbolize to you?
• Write about your feelings on Alvin Ailey establishing one of the most successful dance companies in the world.
• Reflect on how Robert L. Johnson, founder of BET, transformed media perception of black culture.
• Research Gwendolyn Brooks, the first African American to win a Pulitzer Prize. Write the impact of her work on your life or the world.
• Chronicle a few of the most influential Motown songs from the 1960s and their effect on American culture and civil rights.

The Great Migration And Its Effects

Drawing from the gripping historical narrative of the Great Migration and its effects, here are 20 writing prompts to explore this significant era:

• Imagine you're embarking on the Great Migration – describe your hopes and fears.
• Write a letter to a loved one explaining why you've decided to move North.
• Journal about the economic challenges African Americans faced in Southern states that triggered the Great Migration.
• Describe the scene at a train station during the peak of the Great Migration.
• Write a dialogue between a Southern farm owner and a worker who has decided to leave.
• Sketch a timeline of your fictional journey from the South to the North, detailing the cities you'd pass through and the changes you'd encounter.
• Explore the psychological impact of leaving your homeland in search of a better life.
• Discuss how the Great Migration shaped the cultural landscape of northern cities.
• Write about how the Great Migration influenced the Harlem Renaissance.
• Describe the racial tensions that emerged in northern cities as a result of the Great Migration.
• Discuss the role of prominent black newspapers in encouraging the Great Migration.
• Reflect on the societal effects on the South caused by the large-scale exodus.
• Write the story of a family that chose to stay in the South rather than participate in the Migration.
• Create a narrative from the perspective of a child experiencing the first day at a new school in the North.
• Imagine yourself as a blue-collar worker in the North adjusting to city life – detail your daily routine.
• Write about how the Great Migration influenced the civil rights movement.
• Explore the difference between the optimism at the beginning of the journey and the reality upon reaching the North.
• Discuss the role of music, specifically blues and jazz, in narrating the stories of the Great Migration.
• Detail the experiences that would be unique to women during the Great Migration.
• Reflect on how the historical narrative of the Great Migration shapes your understanding of present-day racial dynamics in America.

Black History Icons In The Sports Industry

Exploring Black History Icons in the Sports Industry through journaling invites us to recognize their breakthroughs, challenges, and impacts, further fostering an appreciation of their contributions. Here are 20 journal prompts to help you reflect on these iconic black figures in sports:

• Write about a defining moment in the career of an African American athlete.
• Develop a narrative around the obstacles faced by black athletes in the early years of sports.
• Reflect on the impact of Jackie Robinson breaking racial barriers in baseball.
• How have black athletes advanced civil rights causes using their platform?
• Describe how the life and success of Michael Jordan inspires you.
• Discuss your thoughts on the 'Black Power' salute by Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Olympics.
• Examine the influence Serena Williams has had on women's tennis.
• What challenges do you imagine black athletes face outside their professional life?
• How did the career of Muhammad Ali impact society beyond the boxing ring?
• Write a letter to Venus Williams expressing your admiration.
• Discuss your opinion on how race relates to representation in your favorite sport.
• Explore the implications of Colin Kaepernick's knee-taking protest on racial inequalities.
• Write about Arthur Ashe's contribution to social issues besides his tennis achievements.
• How have athletes of color reshaped the future of sports, if at all?
• Imagine a conversation with Simone Biles. What would you ask her?
• Write about a black cyclist in a sport predominantly white. What challenges might they experience?
• How did Tiger Woods' success influence your thoughts about golf?
• Chronicle the career achievements of Florence Griffith-Joyner and her impact on track and field.
• Explore how the media's portrayal of black athletes has evolved over the years.
• Speculate on the future of sports and the role black athletes might play in it.

The African Roots And Its Influence

The African Roots and their Influence serves as a powerful catalyst for exploration and self-reflection, particularly during Black History Month. Here are 20 writing prompts to help you delve into this poignant topic:

• Discuss an African tradition that has shaped your family or community.
• Consider a significant figure in African history. How has their legacy influenced modern society?
• How has learning about your African roots shaped your personal identity?
• Describe an African cultural practice that you admire and discuss why.
• Reflect on an African cultural product (art, music, literature, etc.) that has impacted you personally.
• Write a tribute to an unsung hero of African history and analyze their influence.
• Discuss an African invention or innovation that has changed the world.
• Discuss the values imparted by your African ancestors that you still uphold.
• Analyze the influence of African cuisine in mainstream culture.
• Reflect on the resilience of the African people throughout history and describe how this inspires you.
• Write about the societal impact of the African Diaspora.
• Discuss the role African nations have played in global politics and development.
• How has education about African roots influenced your perception of the world?
• Reflect on the importance of preserving African cultural heritage.
• Examine the contributions of African women in shaping societies.
• Discuss the role of African folklore and oral traditions in preserving history and values.
• Analyze the transformation of African music and its global influence.
• Write a tribute to an African leader who has positively shaped your community or nation.
• Discuss the influence of African rituals and ceremonies on contemporary culture.
• Reflect on the importance of recognizing and celebrating African roots during Black History Month.

Black Contribution To The Film Industry

The rich narrative of Black contributions to the film industry provides a diverse landscape for reflective exploration and inspiration. Below are 20 prompts that will inspire your writing on Black contribution to the film industry.

• Reflect on the first black filmmaker you learned about. Which aspect of their work or life inspires you the most?
• Write about a character, played by a black actor, that resonates with you. How has this character influenced your perception of the world?
• Describe a scene from a film made by a black filmmaker that profoundly impacted you.
• Write about the evolution of black representation in films throughout the decades.
• Explore the groundbreaking work of a black cinematographer and how they have used visual storytelling to illuminate black narratives.
• Contemplate the importance of diversity in script-writing in offering an authentic representation of black lives.
• Reflect on how black directors, such as Spike Lee or Ava DuVernay, are challenging the industry's status quo.
• Detail the influence of black culture on the aesthetics and style of a film you recently watched.
• Write about how the Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s) influenced black cinema.
• Explore how the Black Lives Matter movement has impacted the contemporary film industry.
• Discuss the significance of a black actor/actress winning an Academy Award for the first time (Hattie McDaniel or Sidney Poitier).
• Reflect on the powerful themes explored in the film '12 Years a Slave' and its contribution to understanding black history.
• Write about the importance of films like 'Get Out' or 'Us' in portraying the black experience through the genre of horror.
• Write a review of a documentary highlighting the life or work of a notable black figure in the film industry.
• Document your thoughts on how black animation studios contribute to expanding representation in animated films.
• Write a character analysis of a particularly well-developed black character in a movie or TV series.
• Explore how comedy has been used as a powerful tool in black cinema to address serious social issues.
• Document your thoughts on the intersection of music and film in black cinema.
• Describe the significance of 'Black Panther' in reshaping the representation of black characters in superhero films.
• Reflect on what future narratives you would like to see in black cinema.

Historic Landmarks Of Black History

Exploring the historic landmarks of Black History through journaling encourages deeper understanding of the resilience and achievements of African Americans. Below are 20 prompts for your reflective journaling on these significant sites:

• Describe what sites like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site mean to you.
• Research the Selma To Montgomery National Historic Trail. What thoughts and emotions does it evoke?
• Write about a visit to a Black History landmark. How did the experience influence you?
• Reflect on the influence a Black History landmark, like the Apollo Theater, had on American culture.
• If you could visit any historic landmark of Black History, where would you go and why?
• What significance does Brown vs. Board of Education National Historic Site hold for you?
• Explore the challenges faced by African Americans through the lens of the African Burial Ground National Monument.
• Write about the contribution of a historic figure associated with a Black history landmark.
• Discover the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site and reflect on their achievements.
• Reflect on the importance of preserving landmarks like the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historic Park.
• Write a letter to yourself after visiting the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument. What would you say?
• What inspirations can you draw from the Rosa Parks Museum?
• Reflect on the significance of landmarks like the Pullman National Monument.
• Explore the themes of perseverance and courage at the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument.
• Write about the lessons you've learned from the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
• What role do you think the National Civil Rights Museum plays in educating future generations?
• Write about the symbolic importance of the Amistad Mutiny Site in New Haven, Connecticut.
• Explore how the Black Wall Street Massacre Site ignites conversations about racial violence and institutional changes.
• What feelings does the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument evoke?
• Write about the connections between the present and the past through the lens of a Black History landmark.

The Role Of The Black Church In The Civil Rights Movement

The role of the Black Church during the Civil Rights Movement acted as a significant seat of power and avenue for strategic planning, serving as a unifying force that helped to orchestrate pivotal moments in the fight for equal rights. Here are 20 journal prompts to help you explore this important topic:

• Describe the atmosphere of a Black Church meeting during the Civil Rights Movement.
• How did the church leaders influence the trajectory of the movement?
• Write about a sermon of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that you find most inspiring. Why?
• Consider the role of church-led nonviolent protests. How did they impact the movement?
• Record the impact of a standout church leader other than Dr. King in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Reflect on the community's response to the involvement of the Black Church in the movement.
• Write about a major Civil Rights event that was planned within a Black Church.
• How did music originating from the Black Church help fuel the Civil Rights Movement?
• Discuss the challenges faced by Black Churches in their support of the Civil Rights Movement.
• Write a letter from the perspective of a church member during a pivotal event in the movement.
• Detail the significances of the Black Church as a safe space during the movement.
• Compare the role of the Black Church in the Civil Rights Movement to its role in society today.
• Write about the role of women in the Black Church during the Civil Rights Movement.
• How did the Black Church help to address economic inequalities during the movement?
• Explore the legacy of a particular Black Church involved in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Reflect on the courage it took for church members to stand up for their rights during this inconsistent era.
• Explain how the principles of Christianity were used to combat racial injustices.
• Discuss how the role of the Black Church in the Civil Rights movement influenced other churches.
• Describe how a particular hymn or gospel song encapsulates the spirit of the movement.
• Reflect on a surprising fact you learned about the connection between the Black Church and the Civil Rights movement.

Black Entrepreneurs And Innovators

Focusing on Black Entrepreneurs and Innovators during Black History Month can inspire us to reflect on the challenges, victories and impactful contributions made by these individuals. Below are 20 journal prompts to help you explore this theme:

• Write about a Black entrepreneur or innovator who inspires you. What is it about their story that motivates you?
• Think about a business idea that you've had. What would it take for you to take the leap to pursue it, similar to the Black entrepreneurs you've learned about?
• What challenges do you think Black entrepreneurs and innovators face that others might not?
• Explore the history of a well-known Black enterprise, highlighting the key moments of its journey.
• Write about the importance of innovation in fighting racial inequality.
• Reflect on how Black entrepreneurs have influenced our society economically or technologically.
• Choose a Black inventor and describe the impact of their invention on our everyday lives.
• Imagine you had an opportunity to interview a Black entrepreneur. What would you ask them and why?
• Reflect on the importance of representation in entrepreneurship.
• Write a short bio about a lesser-known Black inventor and their contribution.
• Explore a moment in history when a Black entrepreneur or innovator overcame major obstacles.
• Write about the impact of Black-owned businesses in your community.
• Imagine your life if a certain invention by a Black innovator never existed. How would it be different?
• How can we encourage more diversity in innovation and entrepreneurship?
• Write a letter of appreciation to a Black entrepreneur or innovator who has personally influenced you.
• Reflect on the role of perseverance in the journey of a Black entrepreneur or innovator you admire.
• Write about how the success of Black entrepreneurs has shaped Black culture and history.
• Explore how Black innovators have impacted an industry of interest to you.
• Reflect on the path of a historic Black innovator and how they might inspire future generations.
• Write about a time when learning about a Black entrepreneur or innovator changed or broadened your perspective.

Share this page with a friend:

Browse more writing guides:.

Journal Prompts For Depression

Couples Journal Prompts

Book Journal Ideas

Mental Health Printable Journal Prompts

Journal Prompts For Teens

Journal Prompts For Mental Health

Journal Prompts 2022

Morning Journal Prompts

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Start typing and press enter to search

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Resource List

Celebrating Black History With The New York Times

Recent and archival articles, essays, photographs, videos, infographics, writing prompts, lesson plans and more.

By The Learning Network

Below, a collection of Times articles, essays, photographs, videos, infographics and more that can help bring the wealth of Black history and culture into your classroom.

We begin with links to historic Times front pages, from the Dred Scott decision of 1857 through the civil rights movement and on to the election of Kamala Harris, the first woman of color to be elected vice president of the United States, and the confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to sit on the Supreme Court. Below that, you’ll find a selection of more recent pieces from across Times sections on Black history and contemporary culture, including a section featuring the “Black History, Continued” series and “The 1619 Project.” Finally, we list some of our own recent related Learning Network lesson plans and writing prompts in the hopes that they inspire further reading, writing and discussion.

Our list is long, yes, but we also know it’s not nearly complete. Are there important pieces about Black history that you teach with? Please let us know in the comments.

Here’s what you'll find below:

Historic headlines, special new york times projects, selected recent reporting and multimedia, learning network lessons, writing prompts and films.

Archival articles that document key moments in Black history, and give us a glimpse into the time period in which they unfolded.

Historic Front Pages

Selected front pages and articles from The Learning Network’s “ On This Day ” feature which ran from 1999 to 2014. Please note that historic front pages published after that include a link to the front page and the original digital article.

1857 | Decision of the Supreme Court in the Dred Scott Case

1863 | President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation

1947 | Dodgers Purchase Robinson, First Negro in Modern Major League Baseball

1954 | High Court Bans School Segregation; 9-to-0 Decision Grants Time to Comply

1956 | High Court Rules Bus Segregation Unconstitutional

1957 | Arkansas Troops Bar Negro Pupils; Governor Defiant

1957 | President Sends Troops to Little Rock, Federalizes Arkansas National Guard; Tells Nation He Acted to Avoid An Anarchy

1957 | Miss Gibson Wimbledon Victor

1960 | Negro Sitdowns Stir Fear Of Wider Unrest in South

1961 | 400 U.S. Marshals Sent to Alabama as Montgomery Bus Riots Hurt 20; President Bids State Keep Order

1963 | Birmingham Bomb Kills 4 Negro Girls In Church; Riots Flare; 2 Boys Slain

1963 | Mississippi Gives Meredith Degree

1963 | 200,000 March for Civil Rights in Orderly Washington Rally

1964 | 3 In Rights Drive Reported Missing

1964 | Civil Rights Bill Passed, 73-27; Johnson Urges All To Comply; Dirksen Berates Goldwater

1964 | Martin Luther King Wins The Nobel Prize for Peace

1965 | New Negro Riots Erupt on Coast; 3 Reported Shot

1965 | The Big Parade: On the Way to Montgomery

1965 | 25,000 Go to Alabama’s Capitol

1965 | Malcolm X Shot to Death at Rally Here

1967 | President Sees Marshall Take Supreme Court Seat

1968 | Martin Luther King is Slain in Memphis

1968 | 2 Black Power Advocates Ousted From Olympics

1971 | Supreme Court, 9-0, Backs Busing to Combat South’s Dual Schools, Rejecting Administration Stand

1975 | Ashe Triumphs at Wimbledon

1991 | Police Brutality Under Wide Review by Justice Dept.

1992 | Los Angeles Policemen Acquitted In Taped Beating

2008 | Obama Elected President as Racial Barrier Falls

2013 | Prayer, Anger and Protests Greet Verdict in Florida Case ( Article )

2014 | Protests in Ferguson, Mo. ( Article )

2015 | Races Unite for Nine Killed by Gunman at Black Church ( Article )

2020 | Two Crises Convulse a Nation: A Pandemic and Police Violence ( Article )

2020 | Kamala Harris Makes History as First Woman and Woman of Color as Vice President ( Article )

2022 | Jackson Confirmed as First Black Woman to Sit on Supreme Court ( Article )

From Our Historic Headlines Collection

Selected articles from The Learning Network’s 2011 “ Historic Headlines ” collection that connects famous historical events to recent news.

Jan. 13, 1990 | L. Douglas Wilder Becomes First Elected Black Governor in U.S.

Feb. 1, 1960 | Black Students and the Greensboro Sit-In

Feb. 21, 1965 | Malcolm X Is Assassinated by Black Muslims

Feb. 29, 1968 | Kerner Commission Reports on U.S. Racial Inequality

March 6, 1857 | Supreme Court Issues Dred Scott Decision

March 7, 1965 | Civil Rights Marchers Attacked in Selma

March 15, 1965 | President Johnson Calls for Passage of Voting Rights Act

April 4, 1968 | The Assassination of Martin Luther King

April 20, 1971 | Supreme Court Rules That Busing Can Be Used to Integrate Schools

May 17, 1954 | Supreme Court Declares School Segregation Unconstitutional in Brown v. Board of Education

May 1, 1992 | Rodney King Asks, ‘Can We All Get Along?’

June 21, 1964 | Three Civil Rights Workers Missing

July 5, 1975 | Arthur Ashe Becomes First Black Man to Win Wimbledon

July 6, 1957 | Althea Gibson Becomes First Black Player to Win Wimbledon

Aug. 11, 1965 | Riots in the Watts Section of Los Angeles

Aug. 18, 1963 | James Meredith Graduates From Mississippi

Sept. 15, 1963 | Birmingham Church Is Bombed by Klansmen

Oct. 14, 1964 | Martin Luther King Awarded Nobel Peace Prize

Oct. 18, 1968 | American Olympic Medal Winners Suspended for Black Power Salutes

Nov. 4, 2008 | Obama Is Elected President

Throwback Thursday | The Rodney King Verdict and the L.A. Riots

Throwback Thursday | Rosa Parks Refuses to Move to the Back of the Bus

These projects explore Black history in depth and from a variety of angles — connecting history to the present.

Progress, Revisited

Selected pieces from a new series from Headway that explores how measures of Black achievement in the U.S. have stalled or reversed, and looks back at historical gains for their lessons today.

The Elusive Quest for Black Progress

How the Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike Changed the Labor Movement

How Greenwood Grew a Thriving Black Economy

Three Days That Changed the Thinking About Black Women’s Health

Sentenced to Life as Boys, They Made Their Case for Release

Black History, Continued

Selected pieces from Black History, Continued and our related curriculum. The 2021 series explores pivotal moments and transformative figures in Black culture and examines how the past shapes the present and the future.

Our Curriculum

Learning With the ‘Black History, Continued’ Series

On-Demand Webinar: Teaching With ‘Black History, Continued’

Writing Prompt: How Much Have You Learned About Black History?

Lesson of the Day: ‘When Blackness Is a Superpower’

Lesson of the Day: ‘The Black Woman Artist Who Crafted a Life She Was Told She Couldn’t Have’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Bringing Black History to Life in the Great Outdoors’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Black Surfers Reclaim Their Place on the Waves’

Lesson of the Day: ‘What Is Black Love Today?’

Teaching About the Tulsa Race Massacre With The New York Times

Additional Pieces

A Record Number of Black Women Run Some of the Biggest U.S. Cities

How Black Foragers Find Freedom in the Natural World

Why Students Are Choosing H.B.C.U.s: ‘4 Years Being Seen as Family’

The Joy of Black Hair

The Black Nerds Redefining the Culture

How Can Blackness Construct America?

Do We Ask Too Much of Black Heroes?

The Essential Toni Morrison

The 1619 Project

Selected pieces from The 1619 Project , an ongoing initiative from The New York Times Magazine that began in August 2019, the 400th anniversary of the beginning of American slavery. It aims to reframe the country’s history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the very center of our national narrative.

Essays From The New York Times Magazine

Why We Published the 1619 Project , by Jake Silverstein

The Idea of America , by Nikole Hannah-Jones

Capitalism , by Matthew Desmond

A Broken Health Care System , by Jeneen Interlandi

Traffic , by Kevin M. Kruse

Undemocratic Democracy , by Jamelle Bouie

Medical Inequality , by Linda Villarosa

American Popular Music , by Wesley Morris

Sugar , by Khalil Gibran Muhammad

Mass Incarceration , by Bryan Stevenson

The Wealth Gap , by Trymaine Lee

Hope, a Photo Essay , by Djeneba Aduayom

400 Years: A Literary Timeline

Why Can’t We Teach This? by Nikita Stewart

A Brief History of Slavery , by Mary Elliott and Jazmine Hughes

The 1619 Podcast

Related Pieces

How the 1619 Project Came Together

Is Slavery’s Legacy in the Power Dynamics of Sports?

Stories From Slavery, Shared Over Generations

We Respond to the Historians Who Critiqued The 1619 Project

The 1619 Project Curriculum (Pulitzer Center)

“The 1619 Project” docuseries on Hulu

Recent articles, essays, photos, obituaries, photos and graphics on Black history and contemporary culture.

Articles on Culture, Sports, Science and the Arts

How Hip-Hop Changed the English Language Forever

How Hip-Hop Conquered the World

A Silvery, Shimmering Summer of Beyoncé

The Great Experiment That Is ‘The Color Purple’

Norman Lear Reshaped How America Saw Black Families

The First 10 Words of the African American English Dictionary Are In

The Blind Side of Sports Storytelling

A Negro Leagues Star Is Still Sharing His Story

Michael Jordan Was an Activist After All

How ‘Weathering’ Contributes to Racial Health Disparities

The Toll of Police Violence on Black People’s Mental Health

Black Artists Say A.I. Shows Bias, With Algorithms Erasing Their History

How Unconscious Bias in Health Care Puts Pregnant Black Women at Higher Risk

Two Chefs on Keeping Alive, and Redefining, Soul Food

Black Spirituals as Poetry and Resistance

The African-American Art Shaping the 21st Century

Why We’re Capitalizing Black

Seven Black Inventors Whose Patents Helped Shape American Life

The Most Important Decade for Movies About Black Lives

Why Won’t Blackface Go Away? It’s Part of America’s Troubled Cultural Legacy

28 Days, 28 Films for Black History Month

Love and Black Lives, in Pictures Found on a Brooklyn Street

The National Museum Of African-American History And Culture: I, Too, Sing America

Edna Lewis and the Black Roots of American Cooking

Articles on History, Politics, Education and Business

Inside the College Board’s Revised African American Studies Curriculum

One Black Family, One Affirmative Action Ruling, and Lots of Thoughts

Florida Scoured Math Textbooks for ‘Prohibited Topics.’ Next Up: Social Studies.

Hate Crimes Reported in Schools Nearly Doubled Between 2018 and 2022

8 Places Across the U.S. That Illuminate Black History

‘I Have a Dream,’ Yesterday and Today

The Home of Carter G. Woodson, the Man Behind Black History Month

America’s Black Cemeteries and Three Women Trying to Save Them

A New Front in Reparations: Seeking the Return of Lost Family Land

How the Voting Rights Act, Newly Challenged, Has Long Been Under Attack

‘The Justins’ Follow a Legacy of Resistance in Tennessee

Juneteenth: The History of a Holiday

Teachers Tackle Black History Month, Under New Restrictions

Revitalizing Black Neighborhoods by Preserving Their History

Hidden in Plain Sight: The Ghosts of Segregation

Welcome to Homecoming!

Meet the Brave but Overlooked Women of Color Who Fought for the Vote

What Is Owed

Lock-Ins and Walkouts: The Students Changing City Schools From the Inside

Emmett Till’s Murder, and How America Remembers Its Darkest Moments

1.5 Million Missing Black Men

Found: Rosa Parks’s Arrest Warrant, and More Traces of Civil Rights History

President Obama’s Farewell Address: Full Video and Text

New Databases Offer Insights Into the Lives of Escaped Slaves

Opinion Essays

Yes, Kwanzaa Is Made Up. That’s Why It’s Great

Who’s Afraid of Black History?

How Does Diversity Actually Work at College? We Asked 10 Young Black Americans.

How the Underground Railroad Got Its Name

The Forgotten Radicalism of the March on Washington

Martin Luther King Jr. Wasn’t a Lone Messiah

Why We Have to Reckon With the Real Malcolm X

Genuine Progress Is the Ability to Be Black and Stumble

Tyre Nichols’s Death Is America’s Shame

My Hair Was Always a Source of Tension Between My Mother and Me. Then We Met Charlotte.

Rodeo Is Turning America’s Whitest Big City Black

What Canceling Student Debt Would Do for the Racial Wealth Gap

The True Meaning of Juneteenth

Black History Month Is About Seeing America Clearly

When Everyone Around You Is Talking About the End, Talk About Black History

Black Valedictorians and the Toxic Trope of Black Exceptionalism

The Real Rosa Parks Story Is Better Than the Fairy Tale

We Need a Second Great Migration

Racism’s Hidden Toll

A ‘Glorious Poetic Rage’

This Black History Month’s Lesson: Joy

It Was Never About Busing

Brent Staples’s Pulitzer Prize-Winning Work at The Times

I’m Not Here to Answer Your Black History Month Questions

The ‘Lost Cause’ That Built Jim Crow

Ta-Nehisi Coates: The Cancellation of Colin Kaepernick

The Cultural Canon Is Better Than Ever

Who First Showed Us That Black Lives Matter?

How Black America Saw Obama

The Authentic Power of Michelle Obama

Henry Louis Gates Jr.: Restoring Black History

How to Stay Sane While Black

Remember Langston Hughes’s Anger Alongside His Joy

Selected Obituaries

Remarkable Black Men and Women We Overlooked

For Martin Luther King’s Birthday, Black Leaders as Obituaries Portrayed Them

Recent Notable Deaths

Harry Belafonte

Tina Turner

Chadwick Boseman

C.T. Vivian

Kobe Bryant

Toni Morrison

Scenes From Juneteenth: America’s Newest Holiday, 156 Years in the Making

Heirlooms, Redefined

How Black Lives Matter Reached Every Corner of America

From The Times’s Photo Vault, the Many Dimensions of Jackie Robinson

50 Years After Their Mug Shots, Portraits of Mississippi’s Freedom Riders

Loving, 50 Years Later

African-American History Seen Through an African-American Lens

A Look at the Heart-Wrenching Moments From Equal Rights Battles

Using Photography to Tell Stories About Race

The World According to Black Women Photographers

An Elegant, Lyrical Look at Black Lives by Black Photographers

The Lasting Power of Emmett Till’s Image

From Slavery to Freedom: Revealing the Underground Railroad

Understanding Race and History Through Photography

A Last Look at Ebony’s Archives, Before They’re Sold

Unpublished Black History

Unpublished: Sports and Black History

Times Photographs of the Civil Rights Era

Our site has been publishing lesson plans and student resources since 1998. Those chosen for this collection are from 2014 or later. See our Race, Racism and Racial Justice Resources spotlight for more.

Some Recent Lesson Plans

Lessons based on Times articles that explore Black history and culture

Lesson Plan: ‘Octavia Butler’s Science Fiction Predicted the World We Live In’

8 Ways to Teach and Learn About Hip-Hop

Lesson Plan: ‘An American Puzzle: Fitting Race in a Box’

Lesson Plan: The End of Race-Based Affirmative Action in College Admissions

A Teacher-Created Unit on Race and Racism Using The New York Times

Lesson Plan: The Debate Over the Teaching of U.S. History

Lesson of the Day: ‘A Call to Remember the 200,000 Black Troops Who Helped Save the Union’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Tour a House Full of Black History’

Lesson of the Day: ‘How a National Movement Toppled Hundreds of Confederate Symbols’

Lesson of the Day: ‘A Civil Rights Pioneer Seeks to Have Her Record Cleared’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Critical Race Theory: A Brief History’

Five Ways to Learn About Juneteenth With The New York Times

Lesson of the Day: ‘Four Studies of Black Healing’

Lesson of the Day: ‘As New Police Reform Laws Sweep Across the U.S., Some Ask: Are They Enough?’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Two Biden Priorities, Climate and Inequality, Meet on Black-Owned Farms’

Lesson of the Day: ‘A Teenager Was Bullied. His Ancestors Saved Him.’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Dr. Seuss Books Are Pulled, and a “Cancel Culture” Controversy Erupts’

Resources for Teaching About Race and Racism With The New York Times and an on-demand webinar

Lesson of the Day: ‘What Students Are Saying About Race and Racism in America’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Black, Deaf and Extremely Online’

Lesson of the Day: Amanda Gorman and ‘The Hill We Climb’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Listen Up: These Young Black Poets Have a Message’

Lesson of the Day: ‘How Black Lives Matter Reached Every Corner of America’

Teaching Ideas and Resources to Help Students Make Sense of the George Floyd Protests

Learning About Slavery With Primary Sources

Lesson of the Day: ‘Two States. Eight Textbooks. Two American Stories.’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Can Biology Class Reduce Racism?’

Still Separate, Still Unequal: Teaching about School Segregation and Educational Inequality

‘Her Subject Is America’: Teaching Toni Morrison With The New York Times

Moving On Up: Teaching With the Data of Economic Mobility

25 Mini-Films for Exploring Race, Bias and Identity With Students

First Encounters With Race and Racism: Teaching Ideas for Classroom Conversations

Equality Under the Law? Investigating Race and the Justice System

Teaching and Learning About Martin Luther King Jr. With The New York Times

Front Page History: Teaching About Selma Using Original Times Reporting

Reader Idea | Reading Langston Hughes and Charles Blow With Youth in Detention

Reader Idea | A Mural Project Inspired by New York Times Columns on Race

Guest Post | Ideas for Student Civic Action in a Time of Social Uncertainty

Text to Text Series

An often-taught text paired with a Times article that echoes, extends or challenges its themes or ideas

Text to Text | ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ and ‘Discrimination in Housing Against Nonwhites Persists Quietly’

Text to Text | Colin Kaepernick’s National Anthem Protest and Frederick Douglass’s ‘What to the Slave is the 4th of July?’

Text to Text | ‘Why Reconstruction Matters’ and ‘Black Reconstruction in America’

Text to Text | ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ and ‘History of Lynchings in the South Documents Nearly 4,000 Names’

Text to Text | ‘What Would Malcolm X Think?’ and ‘After the Bombing’

Text to Text | ‘The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks’ and ‘The Sequel’

Text to Text | ‘Little Things Are Big’ and ‘Students See Many Slights as Racial ‘Microaggressions’ ’

Text to Text | ‘I Have a Dream’ and ‘The Lasting Power of Dr. King’s Dream Speech’

Writing Prompts

A selection of Student Opinion questions and Picture Prompts based on Times articles and images

How Should Schools Respond to Racist Jokes?

What Is Your Reaction to the End of Race-Based Affirmative Action in College Admissions?

What Do You Think About the Controversy Surrounding the New A.P. Course on African American Studies?

The Death of Tyre Nichols: A Place for Teenagers to Respond

What Has Serena Williams Meant to Tennis, the Sports World and You?

What Is the Purpose of Teaching U.S. History?

What Does Judge Jackson’s Supreme Court Confirmation Mean to You?

What Can History Teach Us About Resilience?

Do You Support Affirmative Action in College Admissions?

Does the N.F.L. Have a Race Problem?

How Much Have You Learned About Black History?

How Diverse Is Your School?

What Is Your Reaction to Efforts to Limit Teaching on Race in Schools?

How Much Have You and Your Community Changed Since George Floyd’s Death?

Should White Writers Translate a Black Author’s Work?

Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues?

Should We Rename Schools Named for Historical Figures With Ties to Racism, Sexism or Slavery?

How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom?

How Have You Learned About Slavery?

How Much Racism Do You Face in Your Daily Life?

Do You See Yourself in the Books You Read?

Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People?

Is Racial and Economic Diversity in Schools Important?

Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life?

Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education?

How Much Power Do Books Have to Teach Young People Tolerance of Others?

What Does Dr. King’s Legacy Mean to You?

Why Is Race So Hard to Talk About?

Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place?

Do You Ever Talk About Issues of Race and Class With Your Friends?

Who Does Hip-Hop Belong To?

Picture Prompt | Lizzo and James Madison’s Crystal Flute

Picture Prompt| ‘You Need to Try Harder’

Picture Prompt | Confronting Stereotypes

Picture Prompt | Reading and Diversity

Film Club Films

Short documentary films with related discussion questions

Why Rappers Stopped Writing: The Punch-In Method

Fifty years into hip-hop’s constant evolution, many of today’s rappers don’t write down their lyrics at all. Here’s how they make songs now.

“I think a lot of people picture, like, modern rappers who really just, like, pen and paper in the studio, writing down their raps, figuring it out, scratching it out, changing it.” “Yeah, no, we stopped writing a long time ago. Not many people write.” “Back in the day, when people were just using tape, you just had one take. So everybody had to be on point.” “There used to be a time before the 24 track, for instance. If a singer went in, you had to sing that [expletive], top to bottom, baby. You had to have it figured out.” “Most music up until about 20 years ago was always recorded on tape. It’s more of a process. It’s a lot more laborious, a little bit more tedious.” Rapping: “Three strikes and we might just blast —” “I’ve watched Tupac giving a speech — ‘Hey, we have two hours of studio time. Come here prepared.’” “We don’t have time or the luxury to spend all of this time doing one song. We don’t have it.” “Fast forward a little bit. Word starts to spread mid-to-late 90s that Jay doesn’t actually write any of his rhymes down.” “So you literally come in the studio and then formulate sentences in your head?” “Yeah.” “And then spit it to that beat?” “Yeah.” “And you never write down the lyrics?” “Never.” “Which leads to other rappers wanting to do the same thing.” “I found out that Jay wasn’t writing. I didn’t want to ever see a pen or paper, again, in my life.” “He has class, first in the lunch line. My lunch ticket let me eat rappers at lunch time.” “What I know is, when you see your hero can jump seven feet, it makes you want to jump eight.” “If it depends on me, 10 out of 10.” “You’re telling me, you’re falling out of love with me.” “I came up at the trenches.” “The problem is that not all of them are as great or as capable of doing it.” “Yeah, turn me up in my ear.” [rapping] “That’s no pen, no pad. They’re just going in and punching in.” “Punch in.” “Punch method.” “Punch and recording.” “Punching three more bars.” “I ain’t never wrote raps. I just be rapping.” “Do you write, or do you punch in?” “I punch in. I don’t write.” “Today, ProTools is essentially, like, the pen and paper, and that’s where it becomes this different type of art form.” “It’s improvisational versus writing the stand-up piece. You know what I mean?” “It’s like freehand versus tracing.” “Oh OK.” “Keep that part for me, just punch me in.” “The artist might not really have the song written, but they’re not necessarily freestyling in the traditional sense, where they’re just going in and saying the first thing that comes to mind, and they’re doing that for four minutes straight.” “Punching in, like saying one bar at a time.” “I’ve got these racks that can’t fold in the wallet. I’m making deposits. “Definitely one line at a time.” “That bar, and you said the bar out there, and you play it all together. It sounds like a whole sentence. “They’re using punching in as a way to create their rhymes as opposed to a way to correct their rhymes. Yeah, I feel it’s really just a generational thing.” “But you don’t think you could end up with something better if you sometimes wrote some stuff?” “No.” “It’s just not for you?” “No, [expletive] that.” “Rap has grown. Rap has evolved, and there’s always good and bad when it comes to evolution. What we’re seeing is a lot of the same lane being explored over and over again.” “People think, oh, they just rap about this, or they’re just rapping about, like, the easy rhyme scheme or the easy — but to be in a studio and write five songs a day, seven days a week about new topics and make it sound different, it’s very, very impressive.” “It is a sport. It is a sport to it.” “Instead of one song for a week, it’s five songs a night, and you keep it pushing.” “Not that our artistry isn’t appreciated, but it’s more so like, all right, how fast are we getting this done?” “And I’m just saying that the unprofessional rap culture is what I’m a kid of. Guys were like, I’m just a street cat, and I’ll rap.” [rapping] “I jumped off the porch and bought me a gun.” “I just want people to know that, like, you’re not Jay-Z, you’re not a failure.” “It’s about you, whether you’re writing on a phone, a piece of paper, punching in, off the dome. It doesn’t matter.” “Rapping to me, coming from, like, how I feel right then and there. Like me writing down ain’t going to be the same energy of me saying it.” “You can’t really hold your technique over a younger generation’s head, right? Ultimately, it is about just getting the best end result.” [rapping] “I respect it all because it all takes work, and it all takes thought. Whether you’re sitting over a pad or you got to spend four hours figuring it out, piecing it together, punching in, if the end, result moves people emotionally, the art is worth it.”

How a Rare Portrait of an Enslaved Child Arrived at the Met

What’s Tea?

Trayvon Martin Is Still Making America Confront Its Original Sin

Almost Famous: The Queen of Basketball

Long Island’s Enduring Black Beachfront Community

Inside the Battle Over George Floyd Square

What It Means to Be Black in America

My Father, Martin Luther King Jr., Had Another Dream

A Concerto Is a Conversation

‘Baptized in Blackness’: Why Homecoming Is Vital to the Black College Experience

Why I Won’t Teach My Son ‘Black Codes’

Almost Famous: The Lost Astronaut

Traveling While Black

How Dr. King Changed a Sanitation Worker’s Life

Taking a Knee and Taking Down A Monument

Crossing Cultures: Black K-Pop Fans in America

A Conversation With My Black Son

25 Black History Month Writing Prompts

Black History Month is a great time to learn about the amazing history and culture of African Americans.

It’s a chance to celebrate their stories and get inspired . One cool way to do that is through writing!

Whether you’re a student, a writer, or just someone who wants to understand this important part of American history better, these writing prompts will help.

They’re designed to get you thinking about the lives, challenges, and incredible achievements of Black Americans.

If you’re a teacher , use them in your classroom!

If you like to write, they’ll get your creativity flowing.

They’ll make everyone think a little deeper and appreciate the awesome things African Americans have contributed to our world.

Ready to get started?

Let’s go.

• Exploring the Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.: Dive into the life and contributions of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Write a research paper discussing how King’s advocacy for nonviolent protest shaped the civil rights movement and continues to influence contemporary social justice initiatives. Compare his vision of equality with the current state of racial equity in America and provide a detailed analysis with real-life examples.
• The Impact of Black Music on American Culture: Investigate how Black music – from blues and jazz to hip-hop and R&B – has influenced American culture over the decades. Discuss specific artists, musical pieces, and movements, exploring how these elements have affected broader societal shifts. Your main focus should be the intersection of Black music with sociopolitical evolution in the United States.
• Unrecognized Black Figures in American History: Identify and elaborate on the contributions of lesser-known Black figures in American history. These could range from scientists and inventors to politicians and activists whose names are not as commonly recognized but who played significant roles . Develop a narrative that highlights the accomplishments of these unsung heroes , and discuss the reasons for their relative obscurity.
• The Role of Black Soldiers in U.S. Military History: From the Revolutionary War to modern conflicts , Black soldiers have made significant contributions to the United States military. Examine these contributions, the adversities they faced, and their impact on the fight for civil rights. Focus on the juxtaposition of their fight for freedom abroad while dealing with discrimination at home .
• Understanding the Harlem Renaissance: Dive into the cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem during the 1920s. Explore the significance of this movement on Black identity , its major figures, and how it paved the way for future cultural and artistic endeavors. The central point should be the transformation of African American identity and perception during the Harlem Renaissance .
• The Influence of Black Literature on Society: Examine how Black authors, from the days of slavery narratives to contemporary novels, have used literature as a means of expressing resistance, hope , and identity. Detail how these works have influenced both the Black community and broader society. Emphasize the power of literature as a tool for social change .
• The Evolution of the Civil Rights Movement: Chart the course of the Civil Rights Movement from its inception to present day. Discuss how the tactics, goals, and key figures of the movement have changed over time. Your focus should be the dynamic evolution of the movement and its influence on the fight for racial equality today .
• The Impact of Black Inventors and Scientists: Discover and write about the accomplishments of Black inventors and scientists whose innovations have changed the world. Explore the social conditions under which they worked and the barriers they overcame. Highlight the significance of their inventions or discoveries and their influence on modern technology or science .
• Analysis of Black Presence in the Arts: Evaluate the representation and influence of Black artists in various forms of artistic expression such as painting, sculpture, photography, and more. Consider their contributions and the challenges they faced due to racial bias and segregation. Your main focus should be on how these artists have shaped the course of modern art despite their obstacles.
• The Great Migration and Its Consequences: Explore the mass movement of millions of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North and West during the 20th century. Discuss the reasons for this migration, the racial tensions it sparked, and its impact on Black culture and identity. Emphasize the long-term social, economic, and cultural effects of the Great Migration on American society.
• The Emergence and Impact of Black Fraternities and Sororities: Investigate the history of Black fraternities and sororities, focusing on their founding, growth , and influence on college campuses and beyond. Discuss their role in fostering unity, promoting academic success, and facilitating social activism. Highlight the importance of these organizations in advancing African American culture and rights .
• Understanding the Black Power Movement: Dive into the Black Power movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Explore its core beliefs, main figures, and how it contrasted with other civil rights strategies of the time. Your focus should be on assessing the significance and legacy of the Black Power Movement in America’s racial dynamics.
• Black Influence on Fashion and Style: Investigate the role that Black culture has played in shaping fashion trends and styles over the decades. Discuss specific trends, designers, or fashion movements, and how these elements have affected mainstream fashion globally. Your central point should be the undeniably powerful impact of Black culture on the fashion industry .
• The Journey of Afro-Caribbean Immigrants: Narrate the story of Afro-Caribbean immigrants, their reasons for emigrating, the cultures they brought with them, and their influence on American society. Explore their experiences of racial, cultural, and social integration. Highlight the unique contributions of Afro-Caribbean immigrants to American multiculturalism .
• The Impact of the Black Lives Matter Movement: Analyze the emergence and evolution of the Black Lives Matter movement. Discuss its achievements, challenges, and the responses it elicited from different segments of society. Focus on how this movement has shaped conversations and actions related to racial justice in the 21st century .
• Role of Black Women in the Fight for Equality: Trace the crucial role that Black women have played in the struggle for civil rights and women’s rights. Discuss specific figures, their contributions, and the double prejudice they faced based on race and gender. Your focus should be on how Black women have been instrumental in advocating for intersectional equality .
• Exploring the Role of Black Athletes in Social Activism: Delve into the lives of Black athletes who used their platforms to fight for social justice, both within and outside the world of sports . Discuss their individual contributions, the reactions they elicited, and the changes they facilitated. The focus should be on the intersection of sports, activism, and race .
• The Importance of Black Owned Businesses in Community Development: Examine the role of Black owned businesses in local economies and community development. Look at how these enterprises have contributed to job creation, community engagement, and economic empowerment. Highlight the impact and significance of supporting Black owned businesses for overall community development.
• The History and Significance of HBCUs: Investigate the history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), their role in providing higher education opportunities for African Americans, and their contributions to science, arts, and social sciences. Your primary focus should be on the enduring value of HBCUs in promoting educational equity .
• The Portrayal of Black Characters in Literature: Analyze the depiction of Black characters in literature, from stereotypical portrayals to more nuanced, realistic characterizations. Discuss how these depictions have evolved over time and the impact they have on readers’ perceptions of Black identity. Highlight the importance of authentic representation in literature .
• The Role of the Church in the African American Community: Explore the role of the church in the African American community, from serving as a place of spiritual solace during slavery to being a crucial hub for civil rights organizing. The central point should be the multi-faceted role the church has played in shaping African American culture, community, and resistance .
• Black Contributions to the Culinary World: Take a culinary journey exploring the influence of African American cuisine on national and international food culture. Discuss specific dishes, their origins, and how they became staples in American cuisine. Highlight the importance of acknowledging and celebrating Black culinary contributions .
• The Rise and Influence of Afrofuturism: Delve into the genre of Afrofuturism, discussing its origins, main figures, and influence on literature, art, and film . Discuss how Afrofuturism imagines future spaces that center on African diaspora cultures and identities. Your focus should be on how Afrofuturism challenges traditional narratives and perspectives .
• Exploring Black Representation in Political Leadership: Review the history of Black political leadership in America, from local officials to national figures. Discuss the challenges they faced, their accomplishments, and their impact on legislation and social policies. Highlight the importance of representation in decision-making spaces .
• The Role of Black Educators in Shaping Education: Explore the impact of Black educators in shaping educational policies, school culture, and student success. Discuss specific figures and their contributions to inclusive curriculum, pedagogical approaches, and advocacy for educational equality. Emphasize the critical role of Black educators in promoting diversity , inclusion, and equality in education .

Founder and Chief Content Curator @ Digital Phrases

I'm a writer, words are my superpower, and storytelling is my kryptonite.

56 African American History Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best african american history topic ideas & essay examples, 🔍 good essay topics on african american history, ✅ most interesting african american history topics to write about.

• African American History Timeline (1619 – 1865) As the expansion of the textile factories led irresistibly to a rise in the market for servitude Africans, there was a possibility of a slave insurrection, such as the one that prevailed in Haiti in […]
• African Americans: History and Modernity Most African Americans are descendants of enslaved people brought from Africa, and the research focuses on the connection between the current state of African Americans concerning their history. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
• History and True Meaning of African American Slave Music The ancestors of African Americans were forcibly separated from their homes and brought to the United States to work on the plantations of the Old South.
• The Series of Injustices Spanned the History of African Americans A series of failures for Americans began with the emergence of slavery in the USA. However, it is impossible to talk about the complete eradication of racism in the country.
• The African American History: The Historical Weight of 1776 A number of us, who arrived unexpectedly, became indentured to Virginia masters through a bidding process that was to some extent similar to later slave auctions that would become all in all widespread in the […]
• Lynching History of African Americans: An Absurd Illegal Justice System in the 19th Century Another attempt to explain the origin of lynch law is that of regulators and moderators. According to Rhodes, this theory is not applicable because the name of the law and order maintenance unit was aregulators’ […]
• African Americans Struggle Against Slavery The following paragraphs will explain in detail the two articles on slavery and the African American’s struggle to break away from the heavy and long bonds of slavery. The website tells me that Dredd Scott […]
• African American History: The Struggle for Freedom The history of the Jacksons Rainbow coalition shows the rise of the support of the African American politicians in the Democratic party.
• African American History in the 20th Century The NAACP was radical since it fought many legal battles and fought against ideologies of some of the most prominent African American leaders like those of the late Booker Washington and the government.
• African American History After Reconstruction The bureau also helped champion African Americans’ rights by pushing for the 14th and 15th amendments of the constitution that would give African Americans voting rights.
• King Jr. and Malcolm X in African American History Malcolm was able to sell his ideas to the African Americans in various meetings in the streets of Harlem and in major universities across the United States.
• Robert R. Moton’s Role in African American History In conclusion, this article has helped to get a better understanding of the topic and what events took place at that time.
• History of Higher Education for African Americans Even if I had the opportunity to participate in higher education, I could not have managed to take advantage of it since it was expensive, and I would have nothing to eat after school.
• African American History and Its Importance in Modern Days Without a clear understanding of this part of history, slavery would not have evolved to the current citizenship, freedom and human rights that we enjoy in our constitution.
• History of African Americans The readings that are going to be discussed in the paper tell the history of African Americans, their struggles for civil rights, and their integration into the social and political life of the country.
• Perspectives in African American History and Culture The point is that a person has both, mind and body, and if a person could not accept the idea of being enslaved, he/she was not a slave.
• The History of the Black Lives Matter Movement
• African American History: 1865 to the Present
• The Black History Month: The Importance of Black History
• Overview of African American History and Culture
• African American History: Religious Influences 1770 – 1831
• The Brief History of Black Nationalism
• Who Is Considered the Father of Black History
• African American History: Tribute to Sojourner Truth
• Ame and Ame Zion Churches in African American History
• Black Slaveowners in African American History
• Capitalism and Its Impact on African American History
• Education of All Perspectives of the African American History
• Changes Brewing for African American History
• Exploring African American History: The Harlem Renaissance
• Impact of the African American History on African Americans
• The Concept of Freedom in African American History
• How Does African American History Differ From Others
• African American History and “Warmth of Other Suns”
• How the 2008 Election Affected African American History
• Irene Gomez-Leon: African American History
• History of Black Wall Street ‘Little Africa’
• African American History Before 1877: Main Events and Figures
• Language Awareness: The N-Word in African American History
• Slavery and Its Significance in the African American History
• African American History During the Antebellum Period
• The Impact of the Civil War on African American History
• Analysis of Why African American History Is Important
• African American History Figure: Matthew Alexander Henson
• The Impact of Black Soldiers on American History
• The Origins and Importance of Black History Month
• Black Nationalism in African American History
• Analysis of Arguments Against Black History Month
• The Advantages and Disadvantages of Black History
• Brief History of Black Males in American Society
• Racism Enacted Throughout the History of Black Films
• The History of Harlem – Cultural Epicenter of America’s Black Community
• African American Youth and Their Lack of Interest in Black History Month
• Dark History of Medical Experimentation on Black Americans from Colonial Times
• Underrated and Unwritten Black History Heroes: John Carlos and Tommie Smith
• The Connotation of African-American History and Black History
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, March 2). 56 African American History Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/african-american-history-essay-topics/

"56 African American History Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." IvyPanda , 2 Mar. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/african-american-history-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '56 African American History Essay Topic Ideas & Examples'. 2 March.

IvyPanda . 2024. "56 African American History Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/african-american-history-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "56 African American History Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/african-american-history-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "56 African American History Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/african-american-history-essay-topics/.

• Abraham Lincoln Topics
• Black Lives Matter Topics
• American Revolution Topics
• Civil Rights Movement Questions
• Apartheid Essay Topics
• Discrimination Essay Titles
• Colonization Essay Ideas
• Civil War Titles
• Federalism Research Ideas
• Colonialism Essay Ideas
• History Topics
• Slavery Ideas
• Hard Work Research Topics
• Human Trafficking Titles
• Native American Questions

• Try for free

Black History Month Writing Choice Board for Middle School

What’s included:

• Educator instructions
• Introduction to Black History Month
• 9-square student writing prompt menu
• Biographies of 9 key African American figures

Featured Middle School Resources

Related Resources

Jump to navigation

• Inside Writing
• Teacher's Guides
• Student Models
• Writing Topics
• Minilessons
• Shopping Cart
• Inside Grammar
• Grammar Adventures
• CCSS Correlations
• Infographics

Get a free Grammar Adventure! Choose a single Adventure and add coupon code ADVENTURE during checkout. (All-Adventure licenses aren’t included.)

Sign up or login to use the bookmarking feature.

4 Writing Activities for Celebrating Black History

Inspire your students to explore black history and culture through writing. Present any of these engaging writing prompts in your middle school or high school classroom during Black History Month or beyond. Each activity requires students to inquire about the people, places, events, and issues that have shaped African-American history.

Writing a Historical Dialogue

Ask your students to imagine what a conversation would be like between them and a significant African-American contributor to social studies, science, math, or English. What would they ask? What would they want to know?

Present them with the following lists of famous figures and encourage them to choose a person they don't know much about. Then have them research the figure and create a dialogue (written conversation) between themselves and the person. The dialogue should discuss important experiences in the person’s life and work.

Use this minilesson to help your students create a historical dialogue.

• Writing an Arts & Performance Review

Discuss the significance of the Harlem Renaissance, an era in the 1920s and 30s that is considered a golden age for African-American art, music, dance, and literature. Show this video to give a brief overview of the period.

Then ask your students to pretend that they are entertainment critics in New York City during this era. Explain that their editor (you) has assigned them to write a review of a special piece of art from the period. Have them choose between the following options, or allow them to seek other art and entertainment from the period:

• Song: “It Don’t Mean a Thing” by Duke Ellington
• Song: “Nobody Knows When You’re Down and Out” by Bessie Smith
• Painting: Jeunesse by Palmer Hayden
• Poem: “I, Too, Sing America” by Langston Hughes
• Dance: The Lindy Hop

Have students complete background research on the artist, writer, musician, or performance they chose. Then assign a written review in which students do the following tasks:

• Give their opinions of the art or performance.
• Give examples from the art or performance to support their views.
• Use specific details to describe something special about the sights, sounds, colors, or words.
• Provide background information about the artist, writer, performer, or genre.
• Describe how the piece fits within the larger culture of the Harlem Renaissance.

Use this minilesson to help your students write an arts and performance review.

Writing a List Poem

Help your students create list poems, which playfully explore a topic by listing people, places, things, or ideas. Often the title says what the list is about. Advise students that list poems do not necessarily need to include rhythm or rhyme, but each word should be carefully chosen and memorable.

Present the example below. Then ask students to write their own list poems based on the same title, or allow them to choose different topics related to Black History Month.

Black History Is

Frederick at a lectern

Harriet along a railroad

Rosa aboard a bus

Martin amid a march

Thurgood inside a courtroom

Nine outside a schoolhouse

Jackie at the ball diamond

Mae beyond the Earth

Barack atop the polls

Use this minilesson to help your students write a list poem.

Debating the Issues

Many of the writers, artists, and political figures that drove African-American history did so by crafting powerful arguments. Inspire your students to build their own arguments about key issues by presenting them with the following debatable statements.

• African-Americans’ fight for social justice ended after the Civil Rights Movement.
• The Academy Awards need to do a better job of recognizing African-Americans’ contributions in cinema.
• Black History Month isn’t needed because black history is American history.
• Black culture is becoming more distinct as history moves forward.

Ask students to pick a statement that they have strong feelings about. Do they agree or disagree? Have students research their topics to create argumentative essays that either support or counter the statements they've chosen. Introduce them to the 7 C’s for Building an Argument to help them develop their essays. Emphasize that students should consider both sides of the issue and support their own stance in a respectful manner.

(Neftali / Shutterstock.com, Oldrich / Shutterstock.com, catwalker / Shutterstock.com, YANGCHAO / Shutterstock.com, Boris15 / Shutterstock.com, catwalker / Shutterstock.com, BokehStock / Shutterstock.com, Neftali / Shutterstock.com)

"Mae Jemison" by NASA - http://grin.hq.nasa.gov/ABSTRACTS/GPN-2004-00020.html. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mae_Jemison.jpg#/media/File:Mae_Jemison.jpg

"Duke Ellington at the Hurricane Club 1943". Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Duke_Ellington_at_the_Hurricane_Club_1943.jpg#/media/File:Duke_Ellington_at_the_Hurricane_Club_1943.jpg

"Jrobinson" by Photo by Bob Sandberg Look photographer - Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jrobinson.jpg#/media/File:Jrobinson.jpg

Teacher Support:

Click to find out more about this resource.

Standards Correlations:

The State Standards provide a way to evaluate your students' performance.

• 110.22.b.10
• 110.22.b.11.C
• LAFS.6.W.1.1
• 110.22.b.11.B
• LAFS.6.W.1.2
• 110.22.b.11.A
• LAFS.6.W.1.3
• 110.22.b.12
• LAFS.6.W.3.7
• 110.22.b.12.D
• 110.22.b.12.E
• 110.22.b.12.F
• 110.22.b.12.G
• LAFS.6.W.3.8
• 110.22.b.6.C
• LAFS.6.W.3.9
• 110.23.b.10
• 110.23.b.11.C
• LAFS.7.W.1.1
• 110.23.b.11.B
• LAFS.7.W.1.2
• 110.23.b.11.A
• LAFS.7.W.1.3
• 110.23.b.12
• LAFS.7.W.3.7
• 110.23.b.12.D
• 110.23.b.12.E
• 110.23.b.12.F
• LAFS.7.W.3.8
• 110.23.b.6.C
• 110.23.b.8.D
• 110.23.b.8.E
• LAFS.7.W.3.9
• 110.24.b.10
• 110.24.b.11.C
• LAFS.8.W.1.1
• 110.24.b.11.B
• LAFS.8.W.1.2
• 110.24.b.11.A
• LAFS.8.W.1.3
• 110.24.b.12
• LAFS.8.W.3.7
• 110.24.b.12.D
• 110.24.b.12.E
• 110.24.b.12.F
• 110.24.b.12.G
• 110.24.b.12.H
• 110.24.b.12.I
• LAFS.8.W.3.8
• 110.24.b.10.B.ii
• 110.24.b.6.C
• LAFS.8.W.3.9
• 110.36.c.10.C
• 110.37.c.10.C
• LAFS.910.W.1.1
• LA 10.2.1.b
• LA 10.2.2.a
• 110.36.c.10.B
• LAFS.910.W.1.2
• 110.36.c.10.A
• 110.37.c.10.A
• LAFS.910.W.1.3
• 110.36.c.11
• 110.37.c.11
• LAFS.910.W.3.7
• LA 10.2.2.c
• 110.36.c.11.E
• 110.36.c.11.F
• 110.36.c.11.G
• 110.37.c.11.E
• 110.37.c.11.F
• 110.37.c.11.G
• LAFS.910.W.3.8
• LA 10.2.1.c
• LA 10.2.1.i
• 110.36.c.5.C
• 110.37.c.5.C
• LAFS.910.W.3.9
• LA 10.2.2.b
• 110.38.c.10.C
• 110.39.c.10.C
• LAFS.1112.W.1.1
• LA 12.2.1.b
• LA 12.2.2.a
• 110.38.c.10.B
• 110.39.c.10.B
• LAFS.1112.W.1.2
• 110.38.c.10.A
• 110.39.c.10.A
• LAFS.1112.W.1.3
• 110.38.c.11
• 110.39.c.11
• LAFS.1112.W.3.7
• LA 12.2.2.c
• 110.38.c.11.E
• 110.38.c.11.F
• 110.38.c.11.G
• 110.39.c.11.E
• 110.39.c.11.F
• 110.39.c.11.G
• LAFS.1112.W.3.8
• LA 12.2.1.c
• LA 12.2.1.i
• LA 12.2.2.b
• 110.38.c.5.D
• 110.38.c.4.H
• 110.39.c.5.D
• 110.39.c.4.H
• LAFS.1112.W.3.9

Related Resources

All resources.

• The music that moves me most
• An all-new album from an important artist
• Adam’s Train of Ghosts
• A remarkable artist
• Writing Nonfiction Reviews
• Writing Fiction Reviews
• Writing Historical Narratives
• Writing Opinion Essays
• Practice Test for Reading and Writing Nonfiction
• Write on Course 20-20
• Writers Express
• Write on Track
• Write Away Teacher's Guide

Black History Month Writing Prompts Middle School: Reflect on Diversity

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Black History Month: Promoting Diversity Awareness in Middle School

Fostering cultural understanding: powerful writing prompts for black history month, exploring untold stories: reflective writing prompts for middle school students, unlocking the power of reflection, ignite the imagination with inspiring prompts, embracing different perspectives: thought-provoking prompts for black history month, connecting past and present: writing prompts to celebrate african american heritage, promoting empathy and inclusion: middle school writing prompts for black history month, exploring identity and representation:, understanding historical events:, inspiring student voices: engaging writing prompts to honor black leaders, celebrate diversity: ignite middle school students’ passion for black history month, frequently asked questions, wrapping up.

Black History Month is an important time to celebrate and recognize the contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It is equally essential to understand the significance of promoting diversity and fostering inclusivity in our middle schools. By educating students about Black history, we can help create a more inclusive and empathetic generation. Through engaging activities, discussions, and events, we aim to cultivate an environment that embraces diversity and encourages respect for all cultures and backgrounds.

One way we promote diversity awareness during Black History Month is by organizing engaging workshops and assemblies that allow students to explore the rich history and achievements of Black pioneers and leaders. These interactive sessions provide students with the opportunity to learn about figures such as Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and Harriet Tubman, inspiring them to reflect on the struggles faced by these remarkable individuals and the importance of their contributions. Additionally, guest speakers are invited to share their stories, personal experiences, and cultural traditions, giving students a chance to build empathy and develop a deeper understanding of various perspectives.

Black History Month is a time to celebrate and honor the rich contributions, achievements, and resilience of African Americans throughout history. It is an opportunity for individuals of all backgrounds to engage in fostering cultural understanding and empathy. To facilitate this important dialogue, we have curated a collection of powerful writing prompts that delve into different aspects of black history and encourage self-reflection.

1. Influential Figures: Write about a significant African American figure who has made a lasting impact on society. How has their legacy influenced your own values and beliefs?

2. Art and Expression: Reflect on the influence of art, music, and literature created by black artists throughout history. How has their creativity shaped the cultural fabric of our society?

3. The Civil Rights Movement: Explore the significance of the Civil Rights Movement and its impact on equal rights and social justice. How has this historical struggle shaped our understanding of democracy and racial equality?

These prompts are designed to encourage critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for African American history and culture. By engaging in thoughtful writing, we can bridge gaps, foster understanding, and work towards a society that values diversity and inclusivity.

Reflection is not just a mirror that shows us who we are; it is the key that unlocks the door to understanding ourselves and the world around us. In middle school, where emotions often run high and self-expression can be challenging, reflective writing prompts provide a safe and creative outlet for students to explore their thoughts and feelings.

Through the art of reflective writing, students are invited to dive deep into their own untold stories, exploring their experiences, opinions, and unique perspective in a judgment-free zone. These prompts encourage introspection, critical thinking, and self-discovery, enabling students to develop empathy, self-awareness, and a greater appreciation for diversity. Whether used in the classroom or as an extracurricular activity, reflective writing prompts offer an invaluable opportunity for middle school students to navigate their inner worlds.

Using the power of words, reflective writing prompts engage middle school students by nurturing their imagination and encouraging self-expression. By inviting them to explore untold stories, these prompts act as a catalyst for personal growth and cultivate a love for writing.

From thought-provoking questions that prompt self-reflection to creative scenarios that inspire storytelling, the possibilities are endless. Students can contemplate on challenges they have overcome, express their dreams for the future, or even step into the shoes of historical figures. The freedom to delve into their thoughts, both real and imagined, allows students to enhance their communication skills, develop their own unique voice, and build the confidence to share their narratives with the world around them.

So grab a pen, let your imagination soar, and get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery!

Black History Month is an essential time to honor the richness and diversity of African-American culture, but it also serves as an opportunity to challenge our assumptions and broaden our understanding of history. To foster a deeper connection and appreciation for the experiences and contributions of the Black community, we have curated a list of thought-provoking prompts to encourage meaningful dialogue and reflection.

1. Discovering Forgotten Heroes: Explore influential figures from Black history who might not have received the recognition they deserved. Share their stories and discuss their impact on society, shedding light on their contributions.

• Highlight lesser-known activists, artists, or scientists and their accomplishments.
• Consider how their untold stories have shaped the course of history.

2. Breaking Stereotypes: Take a moment to challenge and debunk common stereotypes associated with the Black community. Engage in conversations that promote cultural sensitivity, understanding, and empathy.

• List stereotypes often perpetuated by media, literature, or societal norms.
• Share personal experiences or stories about individuals who have successfully overcome stereotypes.
• Discuss proactive ways to combat stereotypes and promote inclusivity.

By embracing different perspectives during Black History Month, we can foster an atmosphere of inclusivity, growth, and empathy. Use these thought-provoking prompts as a starting point to engage in meaningful conversations, challenge preconceived notions, and honor the remarkable contributions of the African-American community.

African American heritage is rich and diverse, encompassing a wide range of experiences, stories, and contributions. To honor and celebrate this remarkable heritage, we have curated a collection of writing prompts that will help you explore and connect the past with the present. Through these prompts, you will have the opportunity to dive deep into the lives, struggles, triumphs, and achievements of African Americans throughout history.

Unleash your creativity and embark on a literary journey that delves into the lives of influential figures such as Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, and many others. Engage in thought-provoking exercises that explore the impacts of the Civil Rights Movement, the Harlem Renaissance, and other important chapters in African American history. Delve into topics like cultural identity, social justice, resilience, and the power of unity. You can choose to write poetry, short stories, or essays and use your imagination to transport yourself to different eras and historical events.

• Step into the shoes of an enslaved person and describe their longing for freedom.
• Write a letter to Martin Luther King Jr., expressing your gratitude and admiration for his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Imagine yourself attending a gathering during the Harlem Renaissance and write about the sights, sounds, and emotions you experience.
• Reflect on the impact of the first African American president in shaping the future of the United States.

These writing prompts are not only an opportunity for introspection and personal growth but also a chance to honor the invaluable contributions of African Americans and their enduring legacy. Let your words be a testament to their strength, resilience, and unwavering determination to fight for equality.

Black History Month provides an invaluable opportunity to educate middle school students about the achievements and struggles of African Americans throughout history. By engaging students in thoughtful discussions and activities, we can promote empathy and inclusion in classrooms. In this post, we have compiled a range of writing prompts specifically designed to encourage critical thinking, creative expression, and an understanding of diverse perspectives.

• Reflect on a moment when you felt proud of your racial or ethnic identity. How did it shape your sense of belonging?
• Imagine you have the power to bring a historical figure of African descent back to life. Who would you choose? Write a dialogue between you and that person, discussing their achievements and the impact they made.
• Write a short story that challenges racial stereotypes and showcases the strength and resilience of an African American character.
• Research and write an essay comparing and contrasting the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s with the Black Lives Matter movement of today.
• Imagine you are living during the time of the Underground Railroad. Write a letter from the perspective of a fugitive slave seeking freedom, describing the challenges faced and emotions experienced.
• Choose a significant event from the Harlem Renaissance and write a newspaper article reporting on its impact on the African American community.

These writing prompts are designed to inspire critical thinking and encourage students to deeply engage with the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of African Americans throughout history. By using their imaginations and writing skills, students can explore diverse perspectives and develop empathy for those whose experiences may differ from their own. Let’s use Black History Month to foster inclusivity, respect, and an understanding of the power of storytelling to shape our world.

Honoring the Legacy:

Black leaders have played a vital role in shaping our society, and it is crucial to inspire our students to reflect upon and celebrate their accomplishments. Engaging writing prompts provide a unique opportunity to encourage students to explore, learn, and share their thoughts about these influential figures. By incorporating prompts that delve into the lives and achievements of Black leaders, students can develop a deeper understanding of their contributions and cultivate empathy, respect, and admiration.

Exploring Identity and Impact:

Writing prompts that focus on Black leaders help students develop their writing skills while embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity in the classroom. These prompts often challenge students to reflect upon their own identities, allowing them to explore various perspectives and gain a greater understanding of the far-reaching impact of Black leaders on our society. Additionally, engaging writing prompts can foster critical thinking and creativity, empowering students to present their ideas and insights in unique and compelling ways. By providing a platform for their voices to be heard, writing prompts can inspire students to honor, appreciate, and learn from the extraordinary legacy of Black leaders.

Black History Month is a wonderful opportunity to cherish the rich cultural heritage and significant contributions of the African American community. By embracing diversity and fostering inclusivity, we can inspire middle school students to develop a profound appreciation for the accomplishments and struggles of Black individuals throughout history. To ignite their passion for this empowering month, here are some engaging activities and resources that can be incorporated into the curriculum:

• Interactive Museum: Transform your classroom into a living museum. Encourage students to research and portray influential African Americans, such as civil rights activists, scientists, artists, and athletes. Students can create interactive exhibits, dress in character, and share their knowledge with peers, creating a vibrant learning experience.
• Storytelling Sessions: Arrange storytelling sessions with local community members who have extraordinary connections to African American history. Whether it’s a personal account of their own experiences or anecdotes passed down through generations, these stories provide invaluable insight and a personal touch, making history come alive for the students.

By embracing these creative and immersive activities, we can foster empathy, strengthen cultural understanding, and empower our middle school students to become active participants in celebrating diversity both during Black History Month and throughout the year. Let’s strive for an environment where every student feels heard, valued, and excited to explore the rich tapestry of Black history.

Q: What is Black History Month? A: Black History Month is an annual observance in the United States and Canada that celebrates and honors the achievements and contributions of Black individuals to their respective nations’ history, culture, and society. It is observed during the month of February.

Q: Why is it important to have Black History Month? A: Black History Month is important because it raises awareness about the often overlooked accomplishments and struggles of Black people throughout history. It provides an opportunity to educate ourselves and future generations about the significant contributions made by Black individuals, fostering greater understanding, empathy, and respect for diversity.

Q: What are Black History Month writing prompts for middle school students? A: Black History Month writing prompts for middle school students are thought-provoking topics or questions designed to encourage students to reflect on and explore issues related to diversity, equality, and the experiences of Black individuals throughout history. They help students to develop their critical thinking and writing skills while also promoting cultural responsiveness.

Q: Why are writing prompts beneficial for middle school students during Black History Month? A: Writing prompts serve as starting points for students to express their thoughts, opinions, and ideas related to Black history and diversity. They encourage students to engage with historical events, figures, and themes, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Black individuals and the impact they have had on society.

Q: How do writing prompts on diversity promote inclusivity and empathy? A: Writing prompts on diversity encourage students to think beyond their own experiences and consider the perspectives of individuals from different cultural backgrounds. By reflecting on the struggles and achievements of Black people, students develop empathy and gain a greater appreciation for diversity.

Q: How can middle school teachers incorporate Black History Month writing prompts into their curriculum? A: Teachers can incorporate Black History Month writing prompts into their curriculum by assigning regular writing exercises centered around themes such as influential Black leaders, civil rights activists, significant historical events, or the importance of diversity. By integrating these prompts into English language arts or social studies lessons, teachers can encourage students to explore history from a multicultural perspective.

Q: Can writing prompts foster critical thinking skills in middle school students? A: Yes, writing prompts can certainly foster critical thinking skills in middle school students. Engaging with thought-provoking questions and prompts requires students to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information while formulating their own opinions and arguments.

Q: How can parents support their middle schoolers’ Black History Month writing assignments? A: Parents can support their middle schoolers’ Black History Month writing assignments by creating a nurturing environment at home for open discussion. Encourage your child to share their thoughts and ideas, provide resources such as books, documentaries, and online articles that highlight Black history, and offer assistance with researching and organizing their writing. Additionally, parents can talk to their child’s teacher to ensure they are aware of the assignment and provide guidance if needed.

In conclusion, using Black History Month writing prompts in middle school allows students to reflect on diversity, fostering a deeper understanding of the contributions and experiences of Black Americans throughout history.

Writing Prompts February: Ignite Mid-Winter Creativity

How to Write a Block Format Business Letter: Professional Style

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities.

Welcome to Creative Writing Prompts

At Creative Writing Prompts, we believe in the power of words to shape worlds. Our platform is a sanctuary for aspiring writers, seasoned wordsmiths, and everyone. Here, storytelling finds its home, and your creative journey begins its captivating voyage.

© 2024 Creativewriting-prompts.com

Home — Essay Samples — History — African American History — Black History Month: The Importance of Knowing African American History

Black History Month: The Importance of Knowing African American History

• Categories: African American African American History

About this sample

Words: 553 |

Updated: 1 December, 2023

Words: 553 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Works Cited:

• Aitken, R., & Dupuis, M. (2017). Risk, governance, and compliance after the global financial crisis: The implications of regulatory capitalism for the restructuring of financial services. Regulation & Governance, 11(2), 125-139.
• Campbell, A. (2014). Jordan Belfort's "The Wolf of Wall Street" and the Corruption of the American Dream. Journal of American Culture, 37(2), 252-265.
• Covell, J., & Crispin, L. (2017). Masculinity, gender and the domain of the sales organization. Gender, Work & Organization, 24(3), 274-287.
• Diamond, J. (2013). The wolf of wall street: How Hollywood infiltrated the Dow Jones. Financial Times, 1.
• Elazar, M. (2016). “Wolf of Wall Street” on trial: Pop culture in the court of law. Rutgers Journal of Law & Public Policy, 13(2), 301-331.
• Field, D. (2015). High rollers: Inside the savings and loan disaster. University of Texas Press.
• Kondratieva, M. A., & Semenov, V. P. (2019). Moral values in the context of Wall Street. European Journal of Science and Theology, 15(3), 143-155.
• Levin, M. J. (2016). From Jordan Belfort to Steve Cohen: The ethical perils of insider trading. Journal of Business Ethics, 133(3), 549-563.
• Lowry, D. T., & Gaskin, J. (2019). Gender and power in the workplace: Analyzing the influence of the #MeToo movement in organizational research. Journal of Management Inquiry, 28(4), 402-409.
• McNair, B. (2018). Gender stereotypes in the media. In The Routledge Companion to Media and Gender (pp. 57-66). Routledge.

Video Version

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr. Heisenberg

Verified writer

• Expert in: Sociology History

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

1 pages / 538 words

4 pages / 1735 words

3 pages / 1157 words

6 pages / 2546 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on African American History

Why is Black History Month important? Essay on the relevance of Black History in present day is one which is of greater importance and awareness. The Black History month is one which is annually celebrated with the remembrance [...]

Rosa Parks is a prominent figure in American history known for her pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. This essay will analyze the character of Rosa Parks, exploring her background, actions, and impact on society. By [...]

The War of 1812, fought between the United States and Great Britain, is often overshadowed by the American Revolution and the Civil War. However, it had significant impacts on the United States that affected its political, [...]

Baseball has been a popular sport in the United States for over a century, and its integration has been a topic of discussion for many years. While the integration of baseball is often associated with the breaking of the color [...]

Dr. Carter G. Woodson was father of Black History Month, he was born in1875 near New Canton, VA. He was the son of former slaves. In 1907, he obtained his BA degree from the University of Chicago. In 1912, he received his PhD [...]

Bessie Coleman's life and achievements serve as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of one's dreams. Despite facing significant obstacles, she defied societal expectations and became a pioneer [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

black history month writing prompt

All Formats

Resource types, all resource types.

• Rating Count
• Price (Ascending)
• Price (Descending)
• Most Recent

Black history month writing prompt

Ruby Bridges Craft Black History Month Art Project Bulletin Board Writing Prompt

Black History Month Writing Prompt , Black History Research Template Month Slides

• Google Apps™

George Washington Carver Craft Black History Month Art Project Writing Prompts

Black History Month Activities Writing Prompts with Word Bank and Rubric

Black History Month Unit - Middle School Paired Reading, Writing Prompts

Black History Month Bell Ringers/ Writing Prompts - Google Slides

Canadian Black History Month Writing Prompts | Digital and Printable

Black History Month Book Companions Bundle Reading Activities Writing Prompts

Black History Month Writing Prompts

Black History Month Activity with Ruby Bridges Writing Prompts and Craft Pack

Black History Month Writing Prompts Kindergarten & 1st Grade 4 Square Templates

FEBRUARY Writing Prompts w Passages Black History Month Valentine's Day RACE

• Internet Activities

Rosa Parks Craft, Rosa Parks Activities, Black History Month Writing Prompt

Black History Month Activity with Rosa Parks Writing Prompts and Craft Pack

Black History Month Nonfiction Reading Passage with Questions & Writing Prompts

Black History Month Activity with Harriet Tubman Writing Prompts and Craft Pack

Booker T Washington Craft Black History Month Art Bulletin Board Writing Prompts

Black History Month Writing Bundle: 4 Square, Writing Prompts , Door Decorations

I Have a Dream Craft Martin Luther King Jr Black History Month Writing Prompts

Black History Month Writing Prompts | Martin Luther King Jr

Black History Month Writing Prompts BUNDLE, Ruby Bridges Writing Craft&activity

Freewater Discussion Questions, Assessment, & Writing Prompt / Black History Month

• Google Slides™

Ruby Bridges Writing Prompts Activities Black History Month Bulletin Board Craft

Black History Month : Writing Prompts Pack

• We're hiring
• Help & FAQ
• Privacy policy
• Student privacy
• Terms of service
• Tell us what you think

The Study Blog

Term Paper Writing Help

If you aren't sure whether you are good at expressing yourself through writing, then if you find it difficult to do so (e.g., when trying to write an english essay), we can help you overcome those obstacles by assisting you in improving your communication through writing. We help students compose essays or other types of papers for their courses. Now is the time to come visit us!

How to Overcome the Complexity of a Nursing Essay

There aren't many alternatives for professional translations. Before writing a good summary of something, you need to know your subject well enough to be able to write an accurate one. A research paper requires mastery of research language, a deep understanding of their subjects to be able to write about them clearly, and a careful consideration of possible problems before proposing solutions. Students often have trouble understanding medical terminology when they first encounter it, because they have never heard of these words before. When writing a cohesive psychology essay, students must be familiar with some psychological concepts. We have a wealth of experience under our belt, so we know where they need help. Although you may be able to find better deals elsewhere, there is no way to tell if these sites offer superior customer service and top-quality results. Read customer reviews before making any online purchases. If you don't think there's a market for them, it's perhaps best to skip them.

Professional Help from Copywriters

If you would like us to write anything from an essay in history to a term paper for you, we’d be happy to oblige. When writing something, there's a precise formula for choosing the best word. You can rest assured that you'll receive an expertly written paper from those who know exactly what they're doing. No need to write anything down today; there are no reasons why you shouldn't let others edit your document for you. Don't waste your time trying to convince them to do it for you, instead, invest it in something more productive! Order term papers online and go there! Founded in a simple belief that we are capable of delivering top-quality content to you, we offer a range of guarantees. Test it out yourself! The results must be presented after all the research has been completed.

Cheap Business Essay Writing Services

Before being accepted into our company, we underwent extensive background checks. Check their credentials to confirm that they have been writing professionally for some time. If they are members of professional associations, check, for instance.

Fun Tips to Spend Orthodox Easter Away from Home

In "Student Life"

Welcome to the New Bloggers

In "Degree Essentials"

Mastering Warwick as a Postgraduate

In "Looking After You"

Comments are closed.

Copyright, 2023