The Denial of Literacy in the Antebellum South – 9th Grade African American History Worksheet (Curriculum)

Description:
Dive into the complex history of literacy and education in the antebellum South with this engaging, standards-aligned worksheet designed for 9th-grade students. Through primary sources, timelines, and critical thinking exercises, students will explore why enslaved people were denied literacy, how anti-literacy laws were enforced, and how knowledge became a powerful tool of resistance.

What’s included:

• ✅ Timeline of anti-literacy laws and key historical events (1740–1860s)
• ✅ Case study of Nat Turner’s Rebellion and its impact on literacy laws
• ✅ Evidence-based analysis using the CER (Claim, Evidence, Reasoning) framework
• ✅ Reflection prompts and critical thinking exercises connecting history to today
• ✅ Focus on notable figures like Frederick Douglass and their resistance strategies
• ✅ Accessible layout with guided practice, independent tasks, and exit tickets

Why it’s useful:

• Perfect for homeschool, classroom, or supplemental learning
• Encourages analytical reading and historical reasoning
• Helps students understand the connection between literacy, freedom, and power
• Supports comprehension and engagement with thought-provoking prompts

Level: 9th grade / High School
Subject: African American History / Social Studies