A Class Divided presents a powerful look at Jane Elliott’s “blue eyes/brown eyes” exercise, a lesson in prejudice conducted shortly after Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in 1968. This a class divided viewing guide is designed to help educators facilitate meaningful discussions with students about the history of racism and the impact of prejudice in modern society.
The film’s subject matter can evoke strong emotions. Some students may grapple with the concept of privilege for the first time, while others might find their experiences of discrimination validated. It is important to prepare yourself for potentially intense reactions, such as frustration, anger, and pain, from both yourself and your students. Consider previewing the film with colleagues, family, or friends to process your own emotions before introducing it in the classroom.
For guidance on managing difficult conversations, refer to resources on facilitating discussions on racism, prejudice, and discrimination.
Grade Levels: 9-Adult
Curriculum Areas: Civics, U.S. History, Sociology, Diversity, Psychology
Topics: Racism, prejudice, stereotyping, civil rights
Pre-Viewing Preparation
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Preparing students before viewing A Class Divided is crucial for maximizing its impact. Background knowledge and context setting will help them engage more thoughtfully with the documentary.
Viewing the Documentary
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Carefully consider the viewing environment. Create a safe and respectful space where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and reactions. Pause the film at key moments to encourage discussion and reflection.
Post-Viewing Lesson Plans
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The post-viewing activities are critical for processing the film’s themes and connecting them to students’ lives. This a class divided viewing guide provides several lesson plans designed to stimulate critical thinking and promote empathy.
First Reactions
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Immediately after viewing, provide students with an opportunity to express their initial reactions. This can be done through journaling, small group discussions, or a whole-class sharing session. Encourage them to articulate their feelings and observations without judgment.
Exploring Privilege
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A Class Divided offers a visceral demonstration of privilege and its impact. Guide students in exploring the concept of privilege, helping them understand how it operates in society and its relationship to prejudice and discrimination.
Meritocracy
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Discuss the concept of meritocracy in relation to the film. Does A Class Divided challenge the idea that success is solely based on individual effort and ability? How do systems of power and privilege affect opportunities for different groups?
Language
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Examine the role of language in perpetuating prejudice and discrimination. How does the language used in the film, both by Jane Elliott and the students, reflect societal biases? How can we become more aware of the impact of our own language?
Taking Action
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Empower students to take action against prejudice and discrimination in their own lives and communities. Encourage them to identify concrete steps they can take to promote equality and social justice.
Alt: Jane Elliott, a teacher, explains the blue eyes/brown eyes exercise to her third-grade class, demonstrating prejudice based on eye color.
Internet and Other Resources
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A wealth of resources are available to support your teaching of A Class Divided. This includes websites, articles, and organizations dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Student Assignment Sheet
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This a class divided viewing guide includes a student assignment sheet to help students synthesize their learning and demonstrate their understanding of the film’s themes.
Definitions and Discussion Prompts
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Provide students with clear definitions of key terms such as racism, prejudice, stereotyping, and discrimination. Offer thought-provoking discussion prompts to stimulate critical thinking and promote meaningful dialogue.
This a class divided viewing guide offers a framework for engaging students in a powerful learning experience. By fostering critical reflection and promoting empathy, you can help them become more informed and engaged citizens.
