Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Power of Nonviolence

This lesson introduces students to Martin Luther King, Jr.’s philosophy of nonviolence and the teachings of Mohandas K. Gandhi that influenced King’s views. After considering the political impact of this philosophy, students explore its relevance to personal life. (Duration: 2 class periods)

Learning Objectives:
To examine the philosophy of nonviolence developed by Martin Luther King, Jr.
To consider how this philosophy translated into practice during the Civil Rights Movement.
To explore the relationship between King’s teachings on nonviolence and those of Mohandas K. Gandhi.
To reflect on the relevance of nonviolence to one’s personal conduct in everyday life.

Grades 11, 12, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Rights and Responsibilities
Essays
http://edsitement.neh.gov/lesson-plan/martin-luther-king-jr-and-power-nonviolence

Ideals of Democracy

The first lesson in our AP Government and Politics course focuses on the philosophical ideals that have shaped the US government. Teachers can use this lesson as a supplemental resource, helping students digest difficult philosophical texts and gain a better understanding of the democratic ideals at the heart of the US government.

Grades 9-12
Foundations of Democracy
Assessments
https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/ap-us-government-and-politics/foundations-of-american-democracy/ideals-of-democracy/v/thomas-hobbes-and-social-contract