Celebrating Black History

Overview

This 10-minute PSHE session for Year 8 students focuses on celebrating Black History Month, developing an understanding of diversity, equality, and respect. It aligns with the National Curriculum for England's PSHE framework, focusing on respect for others and exploring diversity within society.

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National Curriculum Links

• Relationships Education:
  “That differences and similarities between people arise from a number of factors, including family, culture, ethnicity, race, gender, faith, disability, and sexual orientation.”
  (DfE statutory guidance for Health and Relationships Education, 2019)

• Health and Wellbeing:
  “About respect for self and others and the importance of responsible behaviours and actions.”

• Personal Development:
  “Recognising and challenging stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination.”

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Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Identify key figures and events highlighted during Black History Month in the UK and globally.
• Understand the importance of celebrating diversity and challenging stereotypes.
• Demonstrate respect and appreciation for cultural differences within their community.

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Resources

• Printed name cards with photos and short bios of 6 influential Black individuals (e.g. Mary Seacole, Ignatius Sancho, Malorie Blackman).
• Flipchart or whiteboard and markers.
• Small stickers or tokens for a quick quiz.

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Lesson Structure

1. Introduction (2 minutes)

• Start by asking: “What do you know about Black History Month?” Write brief student responses on the board to activate prior knowledge.
• Explain Black History Month focuses on celebrating the contributions of Black people to UK history and society, and promoting equality and diversity.

2. Quick Think-Pair-Share Activity (4 minutes)

• Hand out the name cards. Each student reads the bio to themselves (1 minute).
• In pairs, students share what they found interesting about their figure and discuss why these contributions matter. (2 minutes)
• Ask a few pairs to share highlights with the whole class. Discuss how these figures challenge stereotypes and promote respect.

3. Mini Quizzing Challenge (3 minutes)

• Using the facts from the name cards, ask 3 rapid-fire questions to the class (e.g. “Who was Mary Seacole?”, “Name a contribution from Ignatius Sancho”).
• Reward correct answers with stickers, encouraging positive reinforcement and engagement.

4. Reflection and Wrap-Up (1 minute)

• Invite students to reflect silently: “How can we show respect and celebrate diversity in our school every day?”
• Close by emphasising that everyone has a role in creating an inclusive and respectful community.

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Assessment

• Formative assessment through observation of group discussions and participation in quiz.
• Evaluating understanding via the quality of reflections shared during Think-Pair-Share and wrap-up.

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Extension Ideas (Optional for follow-up lessons)

• Research and present on a Black British figure of students’ choice.
• Create a classroom display or digital presentation celebrating Black History Month.

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This concise, interactive session supports the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes central to the PSHE National Curriculum while engaging students in a meaningful celebration of Black history and culture.