Lesson Plan - History Makers: César Chávez

Slideshow: Leading the Way 
After watching, ask: Which leaders described in the slideshow do you think made the greatest contributions? Give reasons for your choices.

Preview Words to Know
Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Words to Know. 

• migrant workers
• labor union

Set a Purpose for Reading
As students read, have them identify the problem that Chávez fought to solve.

1. What detail in the text helps you understand what migrant workers do?
The text says that migrant workers “traveled from farm to farm, wherever they could find work.”
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2. What are some nonviolent methods that Chávez used to bring about change?
Chávez helped start a labor union to try to end the struggles farmworkers faced. To help grape workers get better work conditions, he encouraged them to strike and led a boycott in which people stopped buying grapes. He also organized a march.
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3. What is the section “A Lasting Impact” mostly about? What is another good heading for it?
This section is about how Chávez is remembered and honored today. For example, schools and parks are named for him. Another heading might be “Honoring Chávez.”
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FEATURED SKILL: Synthesize Information
Use “All About César Chávez” to have students complete a biographical profile. 
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