Description
Have your students create a collaborative poster and learn about Paul Robeson in a fun, fresh, and engaging way! Through this activity, students will explore Robeson’s extraordinary talents as a singer, actor, athlete, and civil rights advocate while building a deeper appreciation for his cultural and historical impact. As they work together, they’ll also strengthen their teamwork and communication skills while contributing to one unified final product.
This biography research activity is an excellent addition to any Black History Month celebration, performing arts unit, or American history lesson. Students will connect Robeson’s achievements and activism to broader themes of representation, justice, and artistic influence.
Students will begin by researching Paul Robeson and gathering information about his background, career, and advocacy efforts. They’ll then record their findings in the designated sections on the poster before working together to color or paint and assemble the final display. Once completed, the six-piece poster can be printed on regular paper or cardstock and will measure approximately 28" x 15" when taped together. For long-lasting classroom use, you can laminate the finished product.
This resource includes student directions, a project rubric, and a brainstorm graphic organizer (all provided in both PDF and editable Word document formats). It also includes six blank coloring pages that come together to form one cohesive poster, a Paul Robeson answer key, and an example of the final project to guide and inspire your students.