This inquiry leads students through an investigation that assesses the extent to which celebrities and public figures have a social responsibility to give back to the communities and take stances on controversial issues. The inquiry provides students with the chance to explore the current ways celebrities influence society and the risks those celebrities face when they take public stances on social issues. Although this compelling question is broad, the inquiry centers on Latinx and African American celebrities. This strategic use of sources is particularly useful in showing the ways that some minority groups in the United States can use their celebrity status to impact American society.
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About the inquiry
Compelling Question
Does Celebrity Require Social Responsibility?
Staging Question
Watch a video documenting the protest of NFL player Colin Kaepernick and participate in a class discussion that assesses the extent to which Kaepernick’s actions were responsible.
1
Supporting QuestionHow do celebrities give back to society?
Formative TasksCreate a detailed list that shows the various ways celebrities give back to society.
SourcesSource A: “The New Ethics of Pop: Celebrity Activism since Lady Gaga”
Source B: “5 Latino Philanthropists Using Fame for Good”
Source C: “Top 5 Black Celebrity Philanthropists of All Time!”
2
Supporting QuestionWhat can celebrities accomplish by taking a public stance on social issues?
Formative TasksComplete part of a Venn Diagram that documents the accomplishments of celebrities who take public stance.
SourcesSource A: “For black celebrities like Oprah, it's impossible to be apolitical”
Source B: “Colin Kaepernick has done more than make a statement, he has shown NFL players their power”
Source C: “Eva Longoria wants the Senate to Pass the DREAM Act”
3
Supporting QuestionWhat do celebrities risk by taking a public stance on social issues?
Formative TasksComplete a Venn Diagram that documents the risks of celebrities who take public stances.
SourcesSource A: “Muhammed Ali Refuses Army Induction”
Source B: “How the Black Power Protest at the 1968 Olympics Killed Careers”
Source C: “Nike, Jordan endure share of controversy”
Summative Performance Task
Argument: Does celebrity require social responsibility? Construct an argument (e.g., detailed outline, poster, essay) that answers the compelling question using specific claims and relevant evidence from sources while acknowledging competing views.
Extension: Create a social media post that responds to a recent cause championed by a celebrity.
Taking Informed Action
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