TEXAS HISTORY

This arts-integrated lesson introduces students to the topic of Environmental Justice (EJ) through drama-based activities, collaborative analysis of local maps, and visual arts expression. Beginning with a drama-based instructional strategy known as the Great Game of Power, students dialogue about power, the systems that create and maintain it, and how it shows up in our everyday lives. After a brief introduction to the history of residential redlining, students then break into small groups to collaboratively analyze and discuss a variety of historical and contemporary maps of the city or region where they live. As students draw connections between historical, discriminatory decisions at the local, state, and federal level of government and contemporary environmental inequities, they are invited to imagine and collaboratively create a map of the future for their city or region in which all communities experience environmental justice and can thrive.

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS):

(9) Geography. The student understands the effects of the interaction between humans and the environment in Texas. 

(20) Social studies skills. The student applies critical-thinking skills to organize and use information acquired through established research methodologies from a variety of valid sources, including technology. The student is expected to:

• (20)(C) organize and interpret information from outlines, reports, databases, and visuals, including graphs, charts, timelines, and maps.

(21) Social studies skills. The student uses geographic tools to collect, analyze, and interpret data. The student is expected to:

• (21(A) create and interpret thematic maps, graphs, and charts representing various aspects of Texas during the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries.

(23) Social studies skills. The student uses problem-solving and decision-making skills, working independently and with others.