Conceptualizing Race and Racism Through Purposeful and Powerful Social Studies

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 23
  In Roundtable Session: Issues of Diversity and Equity in Social Studies Education

Abstract

“What is racism? The word has represented daily reality to millions of black people for centuries, yet it is rarely defined—perhaps just because that reality has been so commonplace”
-Stokely Carmichael & Charles V. Hamilton

This quote from Carmichael and Hamilton, written a half century ago, alludes to the enduring nature of racism and calls on us to examine racism as a powerful force that requires deep consideration. Social studies classrooms are an appropriate place to undergo that exploration. In this context, we designed and implemented a two-week unit for high school social studies students to help them conceptualize race and racism. We believe the findings will inform teachers and teacher educators interested in concept formation practices.

Authors

• Anthony Michael Pellegrino, The University of Tennessee - Knoxville

• Joseph Adragna

• Caleb Whitworth