Counter-Narratives: Lesson Plans & Materials

​Lesson #1: Dominant Narratives, Counter-Narratives, and Resistance Narratives

Lesson #2: Dominant Narratives in our Everyday Lives: Band-Aids

Lesson #3: Creating Counter-Narratives that Challenge Dominant Narratives

Lesson #4: Counter Narratives from Childhood: Princesses 

Lesson #5: Counter Narratives from Childhood: Super Heroes​​

Overview & Goals

​Counternarratives are essential tools in challenging and reshaping dominant narratives that have historically marginalized certain groups. In the context of racial injustice, counternarratives offer a powerful means to amplify the voices and experiences of those who have been silenced or overlooked. By presenting alternative stories that contrast with mainstream narratives, counternarratives serve to expose the biases and assumptions that underlie systemic racism.

​The goal of these lessons is to help students understand the significance of counternarratives in fostering critical consciousness and promoting social justice. Students will learn to identify and analyze dominant narratives in various media and societal contexts, and then create their own counternarratives to advocate for equity and inclusion. By engaging with counternarratives, students will develop a deeper awareness of the ways in which stories shape our perceptions of the world and the importance of diverse perspectives in creating a more just society.

Key Concepts & Skills to Develop

​Counternarratives: Stories or perspectives that challenge and offer a different view from the common or popular stories we usually hear. They give a voice to people or groups who might not have been listened to and help us understand the world in a more fair and accurate way.​
  • Learn to recognize and question dominant narratives
  • Identify and seek out counter-narratives
  • Create and share your own counter-narratives

Guiding Questions

​What are some common stories or messages you hear about certain groups of people? Where do these stories come from?

How do these stories affect the way we think about and treat others?

Can you think of a time when you heard a different story or perspective that challenged what you previously believed?

Why is it important to hear and share stories from people who might not always be heard?

How can you create a counternarrative that highlights a perspective or experience that is often overlooked?

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