Logo: Civics Inquiry Lesson Plans
Illustration of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s face with

Has Dr. Martin Luther King's Legacy Been Fulfilled?

While Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is arguably the most well-known figure of the civil rights movement, many do not fully comprehend his impact on the lives of Americans. Teaching about Dr. King is essential for students to understand the struggle for civil rights that continued even today. It honors diversity and explores the values of justice. Allowing students to read and listen to Dr. King’s words helps them understand the power of taking informed action.

Pre-Lesson Preparation

Has Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream been fulfilled?
  • What was Dr. King’s dream?
  • What accomplishments were achieved, and what obstacles were faced by Dr. King?
  • How does Dr. King’s legacy impact your life?
  • boycott  The act of refusing to buy or engage the services of an organization or person.
  • desegregation  The process of ending the separation of different racial, religious, or cultural groups.
  • racial integration  The process of ending racism.
  • racism  The belief that people who belong to certain races are naturally inferior to others.
  • segregation  Keeping people apart; generally as a form of discrimination based on race, religion, gender, or culture.
While Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is arguably the most well-known figure of the civil rights movement, many do not fully comprehend the impact that Dr. King has had on the lives of Americans. Although our nation honors his birth with a federal holiday, it is critical that educators elevate Dr. King’s accomplishments to more than a day in January or a mention during Black History Month. Teaching about Dr. King is essential for our students to understand the ongoing struggle for civil rights that still plagues our nation today and allows educators to honor diversity and explore the values of justice. Providing students the opportunity to read and listen to Dr. King’s words helps them to understand the power of taking informed action.
When educators provide high-quality primary-source materials and opportunities for students’ agency, we can begin to dismantle misconceptions and preconceived notions. Empowering students to conduct investigations, analyze evidence, and make claims based on their research elevates learning and critical thinking skills.
Teachers can find additional background support resources as follows:
Teachers should note the suggestions for advanced preparation of the lesson activities for Day 3.
This lesson contains material about racism that some students might find offensive or potentially traumatizing. This material has been included to give students a sense of the civil rights era and the obstacles faced by campaigners for civil rights. A culturally responsive classroom will provide a welcoming and safe environment where students feel comfortable discussing difficult topics. Ensure that students feel comfortable sharing appropriate personal perspectives. Consider establishing classroom norms that encourage discussion.
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