Lesson plans and curriculum have been developed around themes and stories present in the traveling exhibit, “Journey to Freedom Illinois’ Underground Railroad.” These plans will help guide students in making empathetic connections with the past and learn about Illinois’ significant involvement with the Underground Railroad era of United States History.

Lessons can be taught as a complete unit, or pulled out separately to cover topics such as Freedom Seekers, White Allies, Black Leaders, Underground Railroad Communities in Illinois, and more. The curriculum set also includes an overview and rubric for an “unessay” project as well as an exhibit scavenger hunt to use if the exhibit travels to a community near you.

---

LESSON ONE

Overview of the Underground Railroad in Illinois: Gallery Walk Activity

LESSON TWO

Freedom Seekers John and Eliza Little

LESSON THREE

White Allies John Hossack and the Hossack Family

LESSON FOUR

Black Leaders Along the Underground Railroad in Illinois

LESSON FIVE

Illinois Communities Along the Underground Railroad

LESSON SIX

Underground Railroad Unessay Project

BONUS

Journey to Freedom Exhibit Scavenger Hunt