Poetry & Primary Sources is a six-week interactive learning experience that explores Black history through original historical documents, artifacts, letters, speeches, and poetry. Each week, participants will examine a primary source, uncover its historical context, and discuss its significance through guided analysis and conversation. Together, we'll discover how these authentic voices from the past continue to shape our understanding of the present. Participants will then respond creatively by writing a poem, crafting a reflection, or creating a social media post inspired by the source. Designed for ages 10 through adult, this course invites learners to read history, think critically, and find their own voice through creative expression.

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Pricing & Scholarship Information

We believe learning should be accessible while also honoring the time, research, and care that goes into creating this course. Choose the registration option that best fits your circumstances.

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• Early Bird Registration ($120): Register before August 30 and save on the full six-week course.

• Standard Registration ($150): Full access to all six live sessions, course materials, recordings, and presentation slides.

• Community Rate ($75): A reduced-cost registration available for those experiencing financial hardship. No application is required.

• Pay It Forward Registration ($175): Attend the course while helping make community-rate registrations and scholarships possible for others.

• Scholarships: Five full scholarships are available for participants who would otherwise be unable to attend. Scholarship applications are reviewed confidentially.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Who is this course for?

This course is designed for participants ages 10 through adult. Younger children are welcome at a parent or guardian's discretion, provided they participate alongside the registered adult due to the sensitive historical topics discussed.

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2. Do I need to know poetry or history to participate?

Not at all. This course is designed for learners of all backgrounds. We'll explore each primary source together, discuss its historical context, and guide you through the creative response process.

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3. What will I receive each week?

Each participant will receive the week's primary source, a Primary Source Analysis Guide, a creative response document, presentation slides after class, and access to the recording if they are unable to attend live.

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4. What if I can't attend one of the live sessions?

Life happens! Every registered participant will receive the session recording and weekly course materials so you can continue learning at your own pace.

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5. How do I apply for a scholarship?

To apply, email blackwomenblackhistory@gmail.com with the subject line "Poetry & Primary Sources Scholarship Application." In your email, answer the question: "Why is preserving Black history so important today?" You may respond with a paragraph, poem, or another creative format. Scholarship recipients will be notified as applications are reviewed.

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6. Does each class build on the other one?

While Poetry & Primary Sources is a 6 week course, each week is its own standalone lesson. The continuity is in the skill not necessarily the subject matter. This structure makes it perfect for those who want to pick and choose which week they'd like to drop in on. However, for those who want to do the entire course, they will get the entire recorded course x if they miss it a day. This is not available for those who only choose individual classes.

 

7. How Will This Course Benefit Children in History Class?

Poetry & Primary Sources helps children become active historians rather than passive readers of history. By working directly with primary sources, students develop critical thinking skills as they learn to identify an author's purpose, audience, historical context, and perspective, skills that are emphasized in social studies and English Language Arts classrooms. The creative response activities encourage learners to strengthen their reading, writing, discussion, and analytical skills while making meaningful personal connections to historical events and people. Exploring authentic documents and artifacts also helps students understand that history is made up of real voices, experiences, and decisions, not just dates and facts. As a result, participants build confidence in interpreting historical evidence, deepen their understanding of Black history, and gain tools that will support their success in school and beyond.

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