Racism and Identity in Invisible Man: Strategies for helping "Non-traditional" AP Students Succeed
Waltrina Dianne Kirkland-Mullins
Guide Entry to 16.02.08
This curriculum unit investigates self-identity, social-identity and the historical conditions that give rise to both. Using Ralph Ellison’s novel,
Invisible Man
students will examine the relationship between racism, exploitation and identity formation. Throughout the unit, students will use close reading techniques to develop an analysis of the nameless protagonist. Additionally, students will study the political figures and historical moments that are reflected in the Invisible Man’s identity. This unit addresses strategies for providing “non-traditional” AP Literature and Composition students an entry point into AP curriculum. At the culmination of the unit, students will write a literary analysis of the novel.
Key words: Literature: African American, Literature: Identity & Moral Development
(Developed for AP Literature, grades 11-12; English 4 and English 066, grade 12; recommended for English 3-4 and African American Literature, grades 11-12)
