People have worked together throughout history to change laws, influence public opinion, and improve their communities. Some movements quickly gain momentum and achieve their goals, while others struggle to create lasting change. In this inquiry, students investigate the compelling question, “What makes a movement effective?” by examining recent social movements and identifying the characteristics that contribute to their success.
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About the inquiry
Compelling Question
What makes a movement effective?
Standards
D2.Civ.10.9-12. Analyze the impact and the appropriate roles of personal interests and perspectives on the application of civic virtues, democratic principles, constitutional rights, and human rights.
Instructional Snapshot
Class begins with students reading a short Harvard University article on the “3.5% rule”, showcasing criteria for the effectiveness of social and political movements. As they read, students identify the criteria noted (i.e., a clear and concentrated cause, active participation by 3.5% of the population, non-violence, coalition-building, etc.) on a classroom board or whiteboards.
Next, students move into small groups and use the criteria listed to evaluate the effectiveness of a set of modern movements. The teacher can either present all five case studies to each group or jigsaw the cases to create expert groups. As they evaluate, students also note any aspects of the movements that were missing from the criteria and add them to the chart. After groups have evaluated each movement, students come back together as a class to draft recommendations for future advocates, including suggestions on the movement’s effectiveness relative to the criteria and guidance on mitigating challenges.
Formative Tasks
COLLABORATE: Create a list of what made historical movements effective.
DELIBARATE: Using the list, evaluate the effectiveness of five modern social movements.
PRODUCE: Use the criteria to draft recommendations to increase a social movement for future advocates.
Sources
Source A: “The 3.5% Rule: Understanding What Makes a Movement Powerful”, Harvard University
Case Study Source Set: Black Lives Matter, March for Our Lives, Occupy Wall Street, Tea Party, Sunrise Movement
Summative Performance Task
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Taking Informed Action
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