Exploring the Great Migration – 1910-1970

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Exploring the Great Migration – 1910-1970

Activity Description

Students will study a graphic comparing an early wave of black population migration (1910–1940) — sometimes referred to as the First Great Migration — with a later wave of black population migration (1940–1970) — also known as the Second Great Migration. They will consider the causes and effects of both waves of migration and compare the historical data with more recent data on migration overall. This activity would be best placed in the middle or toward the end of a lesson or unit on the Great Migration, a period that spanned both waves, occurring from 1910 to 1970.

Suggested Grade Level

11-12

Approximate Time Required

45-60 minutes

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to read and interpret a data visualization depicting percentage-point changes in the black population in cities during two major waves of migration.
Students will be able to make correlations between symbols on a graphic and percentage-point increases and decreases of the black population.
Students will be able to use data from a graphic to draw conclusions about migration patterns of the black population during two major waves of migration, connecting those patterns to the larger issues of the period and comparing them with more recent migration data.

Materials Required

The student version of this activity, 7 pages; it contains images that should be printed in color.
A computer with Internet access for each student is optional.