
Primary Source Activities: Slavery and the Middle Passage
Author: Teresa A. Smoak
Grade(s): 5
Description
Lesson summary:
To analyze the primary source listed under "Resources" to learn more about the beginnings of slavery in the United States, including how slaves were brought to the Americas, and what it would be like crossing the Atlantic Ocean on a slave ship.
Lesson:
Students examine the primary source showing the decks of a slave ship. In addition to the primary source, artwork from the Tom Feelings book The Middle Passage is used.
Standards
- People in Societies 3-5, Benchmark B:Explain the reasons people from various cultural groups came to North American and the consequences of their interactions with each other.
- Indicator: Grade 5, GLI 3. Describe the experiences of African-Americans under the institution of slavery.

