Female imprisonment is on the rise in the United States, surpassing global rates. Why is this? Consider the historical context of women in prison, and discover the unique challenges faced by women as they navigate life within correctional facilities primarily designed for men.
The Eighth Amendment: Cruel & Unusual Punishment (September 2023)
The Eighth Amendment states, “Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.” Has that standard been upheld by American criminal justice institutions of the past? Is it being upheld presently?
Judaism at Eastern State Penitentiary
From solitary worship to the construction of the first ever prison synagogue, learn more about Judaism at Eastern State Penitentiary. How was the faith practiced by those living at Eastern State? What efforts are being taken to preserve these sacred spaces today?
The Engineering Achievements of Stephen De Ayala
Uncover the fascinating story of Steven De Ayala, who designed Eastern State’s eleventh cellblock while incarcerated at the penitentiary in the 1890s.
Far From Home: Locations and Logistics of Women Facing Incarceration
This lesson explores the complex and far-reaching consequences of maternal incarceration. Students will examine how incarceration of mothers impacts their children through separation trauma, and how this effect is magnified for marginalized communities. The lesson addresses barriers incarcerated mothers face in reuniting with their children after release, including legal challenges, limited access to family support services, and societal stigma. Students will also investigate human rights issues related to maternal incarceration through research and discussion.
Intro Activities for Discussions on Incarceration
This 75-minute activity explores the historical through lines between the 13th Amendment, incarceration, and prison labor including a case study analysis. Students will explore the ethics of incarceration, reflecting on rehabilitation, labor practices, prisoner wage and benefits, and workplace safety.
First Amendment Quizzes
The First Amendment Academy is a hub for quick, engaging quizzes from Freedom Forum, which also provides educational resources through NewseumED. The quizzes test middle school and high school students’ knowledge with real-world scenarios, interactive activities and thought-provoking questions that make learning these five fundamental freedoms fun, fast and relevant.
Civic Online Reasoning Curriculum
Students are confused about how to evaluate online information. We all are. The Civic Online Reasoning curriculum provides free lessons and assessments that help you teach students to evaluate online information that affects them, their communities, and the world.
Sons of Liberty: Patriots and Terrorists
In this lesson, students engage in dialogue regarding the Sons of Liberty. Students will identify, explain and analyze arguments that the Sons of Liberty were both patriots and terrorists. The goal being to understand and reflect on perspectives. Students will understand historical narratives, while considering their own perspective.
Climate Change Video Handout
This handout can be used as part of our Preparing for Environmental Pathways lesson or as an independent activity in your classroom. Students will watch the video linked within and answer questions to deepen their understanding of the climate crisis.