Lesson Plan - History Makers: Helen Keller

Watch a Slideshow: The Amazing Helen Keller

Discuss: Why do many people consider Helen Keller an inspiration?

Preview Words to Know

Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Words to Know.

• breakthrough 
• advocate

Set a Purpose for Reading

As students read, have them look for details about the challenges Keller faced.

1. According to the article, why did Keller act out when she was a little girl?
The article explains that Keller acted out because she had lost her sight and hearing. It says, “Keller was frustrated because she couldn’t communicate with her family.”
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2. What is a breakthrough? What moment in Keller’s life does the author describe as a breakthrough?
A breakthrough is a sudden increase in understanding. Keller had a breakthrough when her teacher spelled the word water on her hand. She understood for the first time that words were the names of things.
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3. What was Keller’s message to audiences when she traveled around giving speeches?
Keller’s message was that everyone— including women and people with disabilities—should have equal rights.
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FEATURED SKILL: Text Evidence
Use the Skill Builder “All About Helen Keller” to have students complete a biographical profile of Keller using details from the article. 
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