Reading Comprehension About The Black History Month
The following reading comprehension activity about Black History Month helps you improve your reading skills while learning about an important event in February and the activities people do during that event.
NOTE:
This reading comprehension activity “Black History Month” is divided into three sections:
- Pre-reading activities.
- While-reading activities.
- Post-reading activities.
Pre-Reading Task
Before you read the text, do the following task:
Match the following words with their definitions
| Words | Definitions |
|---|---|
| 1. Observe 2. Promote 3. Achievements 4. Prominent 5. Opportunity 6. Diversity | a. Accomplishments b. Occasion, chance c. Variety d. Famous e. Celebrate, honor f. Advertise |
While-reading tasks
Now develop your reading comprehension skills. Read the following text about Black History Month and do the comprehension task.
Honoring African American Heritage: Black History Month
Black History Month, also known as African-American History Month, is an annual commemoration observed in the United States and Canada every February. It serves as a time to celebrate and recognize the invaluable contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history. Additionally, it pays tribute to the birthdays of two influential figures, Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, who played pivotal roles in shaping American history.
The inaugural celebration of Black History Month took place at Kent State University from January 2 to February 28, 1970. Its recognition was later solidified when President Gerald Ford officially acknowledged it in 1976, making it a nationwide observance within educational institutions, Black cultural centers, and community establishments of all scales.
Throughout Black History Month, a plethora of events and activities are organized across schools, communities, and cultural institutions to foster a deeper understanding of African American history and culture. These initiatives aim to educate people about the challenges faced and accomplishments attained by African Americans both historically and in contemporary society, and how these narratives have significantly influenced American culture.
The month serves as a platform to celebrate the legacies of prominent figures in the fight for equality and civil rights, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity to honor the achievements of lesser-known yet equally significant African Americans, including those who have excelled as artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators.
Black History Month symbolizes a profound opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the richness and diversity within American culture. It also underscores the ongoing commitment to strive toward a future where every individual is treated with equality, respect, and dignity.
Post-reading Task
Use the information about Black History Month you learned from the text above to do the following task.
Complete this chart with information from the text above:
| Information | Your Answer |
|---|---|
| Name of the event | … |
| Date | … |
| First celebrated | … |
| Activities | … |
Now, write a paragraph using your own words to talk about Black History Month.
Related Pages: