Teaching the Cultural Revolution
With the film of Mao’s Last Dancer attracting audiences around the world, and the books continuing to do so well, interest in China’s Cultural Revolution (1966-1976) is high.
A free 146-page study guide addressing this period in history has been developed by the Facing History website. Although based around Red Scarf Girl (Ji-Li Jiang), much of the content is relevant to any narrative of the period, including Mao’s Last Dancer.
Included is:
- An historical background essay by China scholar Professor William Joseph, Wellesley University
- 19 historical documents, some in full color, including propaganda posters, photographs, government documents, poems, newspaper articles and more
- Suggested activities designed for literature and history classrooms
- Timelines of the Cultural Revolution, a history of modern China and a map of China
- Suggested teaching strategies to strengthen students’ skills as readers, writers, listeners and critical thinkers
The Facing History website encourages students to think about their role in the world and the moral and ethical decisions that must be made as global citizens. It’s a site that warrants some exploration.
The study guide can be downloaded here.
Image from flickr used under Creative Commons licence.
October 30th, 2009 at 9:59 am
This very nice blogs attracts everyone..The film Mao’s Last Dancer really attracts the audieces..And the book had continued done well, It can give more interest in china Cultural Revolution..