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NOVA scienceNOW: Profile: James McLurkin

Ideas from Teachers

(Gr. 4-6)
Objective
To help African American students see their connection with African American history and their responsibility as African Americans today.

Materials

• NOVA scienceNOW video segment of James McLurkin
• PowerPoint presentation (to write response)

I wanted to show them that because of all the pain and suffering we have been through as African Americans it becomes incumbent upon them to let this knowledge propel them to move forward and Mr. McLurkin is an example of that movement forward. I wanted students to continually hold his picture and pictures of other African Americans' success in their minds, realizing that this is the end result of what they should strive to be.

We then discussed the attributes Mr. McLurkin showed in getting where he is today such as time management, determination, studying and enjoying learning, innovation, etc.

We discussed his accomplishments and focused on the word "geek" and what it means to be a geek. As well, we discussed that in the African American culture, the word geek has become synonymous with "loser or something bad." I wanted them to look at this and try to understand why this is so in our culture. Especially after hearing about how Mr. McLurkin was ostracized in high school by his peers.

We also came to the NOVA Web site to help them gain more understanding of Mr. McLurkin before they wrote their responses.

Assessment
Students assessment comes about in their reflections of what they felt and learned.

Classroom Tips
The PowerPoint presentation should already be made up to include a picture of Mr. McLurkin and the points or questions you want the students to respond to in their writing.

Sent in by
Renee Robinson
Alain Locke Charter Academy
Chicago, IL