This inquiry invites students to explore the role of print media in driving social change by examining the murder of Emmett Till and the impact of Jet magazine’s coverage. Students will analyze the September 1955 issue of Jet magazine that featured the graphic image of Till’s open casket, exploring how this image shocked the nation and catalyzed the Civil Rights Movement. Through this inquiry, students will investigate how print media, as a powerful tool for activism, can raise awareness, provoke public outrage, and mobilize communities for justice. By analyzing the editorial choices in Jet magazine, students will reflect on the power of visual storytelling and its ability to challenge societal norms and inspire collective action.
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About the inquiry
Compelling Question
How can print media be a call to action?
Standards
D2.His.12.9-12. Use questions generated about multiple historical sources to pursue further inquiry and investigate additional sources.
Instructional Snapshot
The class begins with students reading an NAACP press release on Emmett Till’s lynching and reflecting through a Head prompt. They then watch a video on Mamie Till-Mobley’s open-casket funeral and discuss emotional responses before completing a Heart prompt. Next, students analyze excerpts from Jet magazine and oral histories to gather evidence on how print media inspired action. The lesson concludes with a Conscience prompt, where groups answer the compelling question using evidence to support their claims. (For more download the Word or PDF version)
Formative Tasks
COLLABORATE: Students work in groups of three to analyze excerpts from Jet magazine and oral histories.
DELIBERATE: Students discuss emotional reactions to the video and explore fairness, justice, and accountability guided by the Conscience prompt.
PRODUCE: Students collaboratively answer the compelling question using evidence from group analysis.
Sources
Source A: Press Release Regarding Emmett Till, NAACP
Source B: Emmett Till's Funeral, PBS
Source C: Emmett Till Article, Jett Magazine (excerpt removed graphic images of Emmet Till’s body)
Source D: Personal Accounts, Library of Congress
Summative Performance Task
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Taking Informed Action
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