Celebrating Women: Creative Ways to Commemorate Women’s History Month
As we look around during the month of March, we not only welcome the budding flowers, but also celebrate the incredible contributions of women throughout history. Through engaging and interactive activities, teachers and students can honor the trailblazers, the change-makers, and the unsung heroines who have shaped our world and continue to inspire us today.
Beginning as simply Women’s History Week, the origins of Women’s History Month date back to the late 1970s. Coinciding with International Women's Day, this week-long celebration aimed to recognize and highlight the often-overlooked achievements of women in various fields and movements. However, it wasn’t until 1987 that March was officially designated as Women's History Month.
Many women have had to overcome challenges and fight for causes beyond the limitations of ordinary human experiences. Such notable women include Sojourner Truth, a powerhouse abolitionist and women's rights activist, and Rosa Parks, a symbol of resistance against racial segregation. Additionally, Dolores Huerta, the co-founder of the United Farm Workers union, fought tirelessly for the rights of farmworkers, immigrants, and marginalized communities.
Throughout the month of March, students and educators can honor these incredible women and countless others who have paved the way for progress and continue to push boundaries in the fight for equity, diversity, and inclusion. News-O-Matic has compiled a list of activities that will surely enhance any lesson and encourage students to take initiative to explore ideas on their own.
Read Books About Great Women by Great Women–Capture students’ interest with compelling stories about overcoming adversity, perseverance, and advocating for what’s right by reading aloud books written by amazing women authors. Then enlist students to delve deeper into events surrounding these topics with accompanying News-O-Matic articles. Students will be able to make connections and discover how these inspiring women continue to be relevant in today’s news! Take a look at some example books and articles that would be perfect for any elementary or middle school classroom: Fly High! The Story of Bessie Coleman by Louise Borden, and “Brave Bessie” Gets a Barbie! Shining Star: The Anna May Song Story by Paula Yoo, and Movie Star Gets a Quarter! A Computer Called Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Helped Put America on the Moon by Suzanne Slade, and Katherine Johnson Amelia and Eleanor Go For A Ride by Pam Muñoz Ryan, and Statue Honors Amelia Earhart
Hold a Mock Interview–Working in pairs, students can research and learn all about an inspiring woman from history. Invite students to create interview questions for their individual and then ask them to write the answers as if they were that notable individual. Students can take turns as the interviewer and interviewee, not only practicing highly sought-after ELA skills, but also listening and public-speaking skills. For inspiration and insight into the structure of an interview, have students read “She’s Just Mom to Us”, an article where students interview the daughter of Katherine Johnson.
Design a Stamp or a Coin!–What better way exists to commemorate someone’s life than by featuring them on a stamp or coin? News-O-Matic offers ideal articles to instill inspiration and motivation in students. From Honor for a “Truth-Teller” (Gwen Ifill) and A Legend of the Law (Constance Baker Motley), to Coins Tell Tubman’s Story, and Leading Ladies on Quarters!, News-O-Matic offers educators with the most up-to-date content about inspirational women from around the world.
Create Trading Cards and Trade Them!–Students will enjoy creating their own trading cards for Women’s History Month. Using plain white index cards, students can design an image for one side and provide statistics about the individual on the back. Information such as birthplace and date, school or first job, and what distinguishes them as an icon of women’s history are just a few ideas to consider including.
Write an Opinion Piece–Reading and writing are complementary skills that should be integrated into a student’s daily routine. Motivate students to elevate their writing abilities by expressing their own opinions about who they believe is the most inspirational woman of the year, decade, or in history! Through this activity, students will not only learn about the power of persuasive writing, but also develop skills such as distinguishing between facts and opinions, engaging in debates, and refining their public-speaking skills.
As March unfolds, invite students to share their perspectives on the need to eliminate bias and discrimination globally, while embracing all ways of thinking to pave the way for a prosperous future. Let’s commemorate the pioneering women in various fields who have enriched our understanding and inspire us to contribute to the essential endeavors awaiting us.