Socioeconomic Effects of Covid-19 in the United States

ACTIVITY INTRODUCTION: “The Hill We Climb”

Your students will explore the message behind Amanda Gorman’s poem “The Hill We Climb” and her background.

This exercise helps students to deepen their understanding in the light of the recent events within American society This artistic expression delivers an inspiring message of hope and resilience; it brings a message of unity, loss, harmony, diversity and reconciliation of a deeply divided and unequal country

PREPARATION BEFORE THE ACTIVITY:

Have copies of the “The Hill We Climb” by Amanda Gorman either printed or shared online with students.

Decide whether you will have students complete this individually or with a partner

Familiarize yourself with “The Hill We Climb” and Amanda Gorman

ACTIVITY DURATION: 40 - 45 MINUTES

ACTIVITY OUTLINE:

1. Ask students to reflect on current events, where do they see children? What issues are affecting kids worldwide? Write their examples on the board Some examples may be:

The Ukrainian refugee crisis

Covid-19 and school closures

Gun violence

Racism

Ask students to familiarize themselves with the poem and Amanda’s background

Students should take some time to annotate the poem and determine what social issues and historical events it is reflecting on and why.

Have students highlight specific lines that stood out and draw connections with rights they have learned about or current events

Have students write questions, highlight word choices, etc

This can either be done in a discussion-based setting or as a written assignment