February marks Black History Month, alternatively known as African American History Month, dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the achievements of African Americans. This significant designation aims to shed light on and pay tribute to the accomplishments of Black Americans in United States history.
Outlined below are activities and books that spotlight the noteworthy successes of Black Americans who have made a significant impact on the world. By exploring the lives of these remarkable individuals, students can gain an understanding of the shared character traits that have empowered these figures to make a lasting impact on the world.
Introduce students to real people making a difference in the world right now with these free culturally responsive reading activities.
I Can Help Other People (Moziah Bridges’s Story) Grade 1
This reading unit explores the theme of children making a positive impact and emphasizes that one is never too young to lend a helping hand. The featured story introduces Moziah Bridges, a young boy who initiated his own business designing and selling bow ties, using the proceeds to support his community. Students might relate to their own experiences of assisting others, or they could discover how even young children can bring about significant change in the world. As you lead students through these discussions, take into account their diverse perspectives, encouraging them to share their experiences and relate the stories to their own lives.
Misty Copeland’s Story Grade 5
This reading unit centers on the idea of embracing one’s individuality and distinctiveness. Misty Copeland’s uniqueness stems from her late start in ballet, eventually becoming the first female African American principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre. Misty’s story may resonate with students if they’ve felt different from others, offering them an opportunity to either connect with her experiences or discover new ways to take pride in their own uniqueness. As you lead students through these discussions, be mindful of their diverse perspectives, encouraging them to share their experiences and draw connections to their own lives.
Additional Units for Black History Month
These suggested reading units are from Evan-Moor’s Culturally Responsive Lessons and Activities teaching resource.
You Are Never Too Young to Help: Sidney Keys III’s Story Grade 2 
This reading unit explores the idea that age is not a barrier to contributing and making a positive impact in your community. It emphasizes the concept of initiating the change you wish to see in the world. Illustrated through the story of Sidney Keys III, a ten-year-old boy with a stutter who had a passion for reading, the unit highlights how he identified the underrepresentation of black culture and African American literature in his book choices. Motivated to connect with other boys in the Black community, Sidney went on to establish Books N Bros, becoming its founder and CEO at a young age. The overarching theme of this unit is to acknowledge that individuals, regardless of their age, have the power to make a meaningful difference and give back to their community.
You Don’t Have to Wait for Permission: Mae Jemison’s Story Grade 4
This reading unit focuses on qualities such as persistence, bravery, and the proactive pursuit of one’s aspirations. Mae Jemison discovered that she didn’t need external permission to pursue her dreams and achieve her goals; instead, she took the initiative to forge her own path.
Celebrate the richness of Black history and these inspiring stories that continue to shape our world.
For more free lessons and activities check out Celebrating Black History Month.
Browse the entire book here and discover culturally responsive reading activities that include inspirational stories, hands-on activities, creative writing and drawing, and interactive games.
Heather Foudy is a certified elementary teacher with over 7 years’ experience as an educator and volunteer in the classroom. She enjoys creating lessons that are meaningful and creative for students. She is currently working for Evan-Moor’s marketing and communications team and enjoys building learning opportunities that are both meaningful and creative for students and teachers alike.