Lesson 1: Research and Inquiry
Duration of Days: 2
Lesson Objective
Students will be able to evaluate multiple multimedia sources to identify background history, key definitions, and at least two distinct perspectives on race/policing.
What is the historical context of this issue?
What are the core arguments for and against the current status quo?
CT SS Inq. 9–12.3: Evaluate sources and use evidence to support claims.
CT SS Inq. 9–12.1: Explain how a compelling question addresses a key issue in the community.
1. Introduction: Teacher provides a "hook" (e.g., a short news clip or current headline).
2. Guided Research: Students use a digital research log to find sources. Presenters for the week focus on building their slide deck; non-presenters gather evidence for the upcoming discussion.
3. Source Credibility Check: Students apply media literacy skills to identify bias in their chosen articles/videos.
Purpose: To build a factual foundation and recognize the complexity of contemporary issues before forming a final opinion.
DOK Level: 2 (Applying Skills) & 3 (Strategic Thinking).
Provide a curated list of "Starter Sources" with varying Lexile levels; use graphic organizers for research notes.
Completion of a Research Log citing at least three diverse sources.