Embrace the power of voices that dared to defy expectations! This reading comprehension worksheet unveils the captivating stories of Black women in American politics, highlighting their unwavering fight for justice, equality, and progress. From fiery pioneers like Sojourner Truth to fearless champions like Kamala Harris, these women have woven themselves into the very fabric of American history, shaping social agendas and paving the way for a brighter future.

Uncover their extraordinary journeys:

• Pioneering the Path: Discover the trailblazers like Frances Ellen Watkins Harper and Ida B. Wells-Barnett, who defied societal limitations and challenged racial and gender barriers. Their powerful advocacy for voting rights and their fight against racial injustice laid the groundwork for future generations.
• Breaking Through Glass Ceilings: Witness the historic accomplishments of women like Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress, and her iconic slogan, "Unbought and Unbossed." Explore the diverse paths of Barbara Jordan, Maxine Waters, and Carol Moseley Braun, who brought new perspectives to the political landscape and championed progressive policies.
• Beyond Legislative Halls: Witness the multifaceted impact of Black women in politics. They aren't just lawmakers; they're grassroots organizers, policy analysts, and mentors, driving change through diverse avenues. Their dedication to voter registration, social justice movements, and community empowerment ensures diverse voices remain at the forefront.
• A Legacy of Inspiration: Celebrate the triumphs of Black women in politics as testaments to their unwavering resilience and commitment to building a more just and equitable future. Their stories ignite hope and inspire future generations to embrace their own political voices and join the ongoing fight for progress.

Engage your students with:

• Captivating narrative: Immerse students in the captivating stories of these remarkable women, igniting curiosity and understanding.
• Primary source analysis: Analyze Barbara Jordan's powerful metaphor, connecting it to the historical role of Black women in advocating for social justice.
• Critical thinking activities: Hone critical thinking skills through diverse question types, including multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer prompts.
• Answer key: Save valuable time with a clear and concise answer key for easy assessment.

Ideal for:

• Middle and high school students in social studies, history, or Women's Studies classes.
• Teachers seeking engaging resources for Black History Month or units on diversity and social justice in American politics.
• Anyone wanting to celebrate the achievements of Black women and understand their ongoing impact on American society.

Empower your students to recognize the power of Black voices and step into their own roles as agents of change with this impactful resource!

Review: The content is excellent. It provides a well-balanced and engaging overview of Black women's contributions to American politics, highlighting historical context, specific achievements, and ongoing impact. The inclusion of a primary source and diverse examples from different eras adds depth and relevance to the learning experience.

Learning Objectives:

• Students will understand the significant contributions of Black women to American politics throughout history.
• Students will analyze the historical challenges faced by Black women in politics and their perseverance in overcoming them.
• Students will develop critical thinking skills through primary source analysis and comprehension questions.
• Students will appreciate the ongoing fight for equity and representation in politics and their own potential to contribute.

Common Core State Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.7: Analyze various accounts of a single historical event or issue, recognizing and clarifying differences in points of view.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.8: Distinguish between primary and secondary sources, and determine the difference between fact and opinion.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.9: Analyze and evaluate the usefulness of different resources for researching a topic.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.10: Integrate information from diverse sources, including primary and secondary sources, print and digital sources, and visual sources, in order to write about a topic.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.6-8.4: Present claims and findings clearly and concisely using relevant evidence.