Becoming American: A Series of Three Lessons
Bill Moyer's film, Becoming American: The Chinese Experience, describes the ways the first arrivals from China in the 1840s, their descendants, and recent immigrants have "become American." It is a story about identity and belonging that will resonate with all Americans. In every generation, Americans have asked:
- Who may live among us?
- Who may become an American?
- What does it mean to be an American?
The way we have answered those questions at various times in history is central to an understanding of the nation's past. The choices we make about one another as individuals and as a nation define identities, create communities, and ultimately forge a nation. Those choices build on the work of earlier generations and leave a legacy for those to come.
Each of these lessons is designed to accompany the film, using Facing History's Becoming American Study Guide as a teaching companion. In addition, educators are invited view the Becoming American Online Student Museum, which houses student conversations and art work exchanges from 13 Facing History classrooms across the United States. The lessons are designed for one or two class periods (depending on your school schedule) and include viewing segments of the film, reflection and teaching strategies.
