Grade Levels: K-3

In this set of activities adaptable for grades K-3, parents and educators will find ideas for teaching about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. These activities are designed to complement the BrainPOP Jr.  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. topic page, which includes a movie, quizzes, online games, printable activities, and more.

Classroom Activities for Teaching About Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Inspiration

Have your students choose someone who inspires them. It may be a family member, community leader, friend, or even a character in a book. Have each child create a profile of a hero or role model and explain why he or she is inspirational. Some students may even want to interview their subjects. Then have students share their profiles with the class. Encourage students to be creative: they can dress up, give a speech, write a poem, offer inspirational quotes, create posters, or even build a webpage that honors their inspirational person.

Making Changes

Remind children that Dr. King stood up for his beliefs to bring change to an entire nation. What would your children like to change about their world? Discuss key issues in your school, community, or state. Issues can include adding bike lanes or public spaces, budget cuts to school programs, saving landmarks, or cutting down on pollution. Brainstorm ways that children can get involved. They may want to start a letter-writing campaign or raise awareness at school through events or fundraising. Help your children become active citizens!

Family and Homeschool Activities for Teaching About Writing a Paragraph

Further Research

Many books, films, and other child-friendly resources have been created about Martin Luther King, Jr. Visit the library with your child and check out resources to learn more about his life and work. Read and watch together and discuss. We recommend going on the Internet to look up his famous “I Have a Dream” speech and listen together. Pause during the speech and take time to discuss Dr. King’s words.

Five Things

Have your child trace his or her hand on a piece of paper. Then brainstorm five things your child can do or say to become a better citizen. Try to think of specific ways your child can treat people with respect, contribute to the community, or fulfill assigned responsibilities at home. For example, your child could give one compliment to a sibling or classmate everyday. To model good citizenship, you may want to write your own “Five Things”, too.