Spotlighting Progressive Women in U.S. History: Picture Books in the Middle School

Abstract

In this article, the authors discuss a month-long research study where sixth grade students researched three women for the half-century after the U.S. Civil War War that worked to change their respective communities to address public issues: Jane Addams, Clara Lemlich, and Ida B. Wells. The sixth graders read a picture book for each of the three women, and examined primary and secondary sources to explore how each worked to overcome obstacles and advocated for change. They completed a variety of graphic organizers and writing activities using evidence from the primary sources and trade books. We share the findings from students’ graphic organizers and writing activities and provide needed next steps based on the findings from our research study.