When students are in elementary school, they learn the foundation of various topics. For instance, they learn how to add and subtract in math and read and write in language arts. Additionally, they also learn about presidents and the scientific method. However, when teaching history in elementary classes, many teachers focus on the lives of different presidents or how community structures work. Due to this, students only see one side of a situation. Thus, bringing in diverse books on various topics is more important than ever. Since it is Women’s History Month, the Ona Judge Outwits the Washington Picture Book Companion is perfect to use! Students will learn about perseverance, grit, and determination.
Myth Buster
Sadly, students sometimes think that enslaved people were somewhat happy. While no one wanted to be enslaved, some may say they had food or shelter. Due to this, students must learn the truth about slavery. Now, it is understandable that teachers need to do this cautiously depending on the age of students. Thankfully, diverse picture books ensure that students learn the truth in an age-appropriate manner.
In this book and companion unit, students will learn that enslaved people were not happy. Even when working for George Washington, the President of the United States of America, Ona Judge could not wait to escape. Ultimately, people deserve to have freedom and a voice of their own. Thankfully, using Ona Judge’s story when teaching history in elementary classes will show students the truth about slavery.
Ona Judge Outwits the Washingtons: An Enslaved Woman Fights for Freedom
Author Gwendolyn Hooks and illustrator Simone Agoussoye provide a detailed account of escaping slavery.
Ona Judge had to fight for her freedom while working for one of America’s most famous founding fathers: George Washington. While Ona was one of the most skilled and trustworthy slaves, she knew it would be worth it to risk everything to experience freedom. Thus, she took the opportunity to escape after moving into the President’s Mansion in Philadelphia. After arriving in New Hampshire, Ona was finally ready to start a new life. However, the Washington’s would not just let one of their best slaves run away. Thus, they created a search that lasted for years.
Students will love every minute of this book while hearing about a heroic escape led by a strong woman.
Ona Judge Outwits the Washingtons Picture Book Companion
This unit is the perfect way to introduce students to Ona Judge! There are many lessons and activities to ensure students understand her story while covering many standards.
Specifically, this engaging unit covers reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and character education activities! While it is a PDF unit, there is access to a digital file to use with Google Slides. Thus, every teacher can use his/her preferred method.
Reading: To guide thinking, there are plenty of read-aloud discussion questions. Additionally, students will work on character traits, the author’s purpose, cause and effect, and main idea and supporting details.
Writing: it is essential for students to reflect on their thoughts. Thus, there are writing prompts over various topics within the book.
Grammar: Often, it is so helpful for students to work on grammar embedded within a unit. Thus, this unit focuses on coordinating conjunctions.
Vocabulary: There are so many words to learn! Luckily, there are four activities included for the vocabulary within the book. Students will love completing a KIM chart and concept map for the words. Additionally, they will work on a secret tile puzzle and WordSplash lesson to practice their knowledge.
Character Education: Oda Judge has to be strong while fighting for freedom. Hence, students will learn about perseverance and courage. There are even writing prompts to help students reflect on these new words.
Oda Judge has an incredible story to share the truths about slavery. Even when working for George Washington, she risked everything to find freedom. To help students truly understand her story, check out the Ona Judge Outwits the Washington’s Picture Book Companion. It is the perfect way to celebrate Women’s History Month in the classroom!
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