GROUP ACTIVITY
Below, you will find a potential way to incorporate this website into your class. The website features 16 total newspaper articles, eight for anti-German Sentiment and eight for the Red Summer. Therefore, this group activity works ideally with a 16-week semester that will allow students to analyze, research, and thoughtfully engage with the articles.
The class is split up into 4 groups, each focusing on different themes. The group activity runs in the background of the course, and each week instructors can assign articles for the students to focus on. In addition, students are required to report their findings each week. With this lesson plan, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the topics and the historical events of the past.
Groups and expectations
Group 1:
Historical Context and Analysis
This group will focus on analyzing the articles within the historical context of the Red Summer of 1919 and World War I. They will explore the causes, events, and consequences of these periods and examine how the articles reflect the sentiments and experiences of minority groups during that time. The group can discuss the impact of these events on the targeted communities and analyze the language and tone used in the articles to understand the prevailing attitudes and biases of the era.
Group 2:
Representation of Minority Groups
This group will focus on analyzing how the articles portray the events that target minority groups. They will closely examine how the articles report on these events and whether they support or condemn the actions taken against minority communities. The group will analyze the language, tone, and framing used in the articles to understand how the events are presented to the readers. They will also explore the potential impact of these representations on the affected communities, considering the way the articles may perpetuate or challenge stereotypes, promote empathy, or contribute to public perceptions of minority groups.
Group 3:
Contemporary Relevance and Connections
This group will explore how the topics discussed in the articles relate to contemporary issues or events. They will examine the historical context provided by the articles and identify connections to present-day occurrences, such as social justice movements, hate crimes, or issues related to minority rights and equality. The group will critically analyze the similarities and differences between the historical events and current events, exploring the lasting impact of historical discrimination on minority groups and considering potential strategies for addressing these issues in today's society.
Group 4:
Media Representation
This group will explore the role of media in shaping the representation and perception of minority groups within the articles. They will closely analyze how the articles depict and present these minority communities, examining the language, imagery, and narratives used. The group will pay attention to the portrayal of experiences, challenges, and contributions of these groups as reflected in the articles. They will critically evaluate the potential biases, stereotypes, or nuanced perspectives present in the media coverage. Through this analysis, the group will develop a deeper appreciation for the influence of media on public perception, as well as the importance of critically examining and challenging media representations to foster empathy and accurate understanding of minority experiences.