Engaging Hidden Figures Questions Worksheet For Students
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Engaging with the history and contributions of underrepresented individuals in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is crucial for fostering a more inclusive educational environment. The movie "Hidden Figures" not only highlights the remarkable achievements of three African-American women at NASA but also opens doors for rich discussions and questions that can be explored in a classroom setting. This article aims to provide a comprehensive worksheet filled with engaging questions that encourage students to delve deeper into the themes, characters, and impact of the film "Hidden Figures."
Overview of Hidden Figures
"Hidden Figures" follows the true story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, three brilliant women who played pivotal roles at NASA during the early days of the American space program. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, these women persevered, showcasing their talent and intellect while breaking down barriers in a predominantly male and white environment.
Importance of Engaging Questions
Engaging questions are a powerful educational tool. They not only encourage critical thinking but also promote discussions that allow students to express their opinions and interpretations. The questions in this worksheet will address various aspects of the film, including its historical context, character motivations, and the overarching theme of perseverance against adversity.
Hidden Figures Questions Worksheet
Here’s a structured worksheet that educators can use to facilitate discussions around "Hidden Figures." The questions are divided into categories, each focusing on different aspects of the film.
Character Analysis
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Katherine Johnson:
- What qualities make Katherine an inspiring character? ✨
- How does Katherine’s role evolve throughout the film, and what challenges does she face?
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Dorothy Vaughan:
- What leadership qualities does Dorothy exhibit, and how does she support her team? 👩💼
- Discuss how Dorothy’s pursuit of knowledge and skills in programming impacts her career.
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Mary Jackson:
- How does Mary challenge societal norms to achieve her goals? 🚀
- In what ways does Mary’s story highlight the importance of education and opportunity?
Themes and Messages
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Perseverance and Resilience:
- How do the characters demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity? 💪
- Discuss a moment in the film when a character shows determination. What can we learn from it?
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Friendship and Support:
- What role does friendship play in the lives of Katherine, Dorothy, and Mary? 🤝
- How do the relationships between the characters contribute to their successes?
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Racial and Gender Equality:
- What obstacles do the women face because of their race and gender, and how do they overcome them? 🌍
- How does the film portray the significance of equality in the workplace?
Historical Context
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NASA and the Space Race:
- Discuss the historical significance of NASA's early days and the Space Race. 🚀
- How does "Hidden Figures" shed light on the contributions of African-American women in STEM?
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Civil Rights Movement:
- How are the events of the film influenced by the broader Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s? ✊
- What parallels can you draw between the struggles faced by the characters and the Civil Rights Movement?
Personal Reflection
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Inspiration and Influence:
- Which character or event from the film inspired you the most, and why? 🌟
- How can you apply the lessons learned from "Hidden Figures" to your own life and aspirations?
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Future of STEM:
- What steps can we take to create a more inclusive environment in STEM fields today? 🌱
- How can we ensure that the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their background, are recognized and celebrated?
Discussion Format
Educators can utilize this worksheet in various formats:
- Group Discussions: Divide students into small groups to discuss each question and share their insights.
- Classroom Debates: Organize a debate on the themes of racial and gender equality as portrayed in the film.
- Individual Reflection: Encourage students to choose their favorite questions and write a reflective essay or journal entry.
Conclusion
The "Hidden Figures" questions worksheet serves as a vital educational resource, allowing students to engage with the film on multiple levels. By exploring character analysis, themes, historical context, and personal reflections, students can gain a deeper understanding of the significant contributions made by Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson.
This engaging approach not only enhances students' learning experiences but also encourages them to think critically about issues of representation and equality in STEM fields. Let’s celebrate these hidden figures and inspire the next generation to break barriers and pursue their dreams! 🌟