Teaching Students About How Helen Keller Learned: Exploring Educational Methods and Inspirational Stories
Helen Keller is an inspirational figure whose life story continues to inspire generations. She was a woman who lost her sight and hearing at a young age but went on to become a formidable voice for disability rights and great intellect. Teaching students about Helen Keller’s life is a great way to show how determination and tenacity can help one overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Here are some tips for teaching students about how Helen Keller learned despite her disabilities.
1. Share Her Story in a Way Students Can Understand
The life of Helen Keller can be a bit complex for young students to fully comprehend. It is essential to break down her story in a way that they can understand. You could use age-suitable storytelling methods, such as visual aids like pictures and videos, to help students better understand how Helen Keller lost her sight and hearing.
2. Discuss the Importance of Communication
Helen Keller’s life story could help students learn the importance of communication in every aspect of life. Discuss how she used sign language and braille to communicate with her teacher and loved ones. Students could attempt to learn sign language as part of the lesson to understand better how she communicated.
3. Highlight Her Accomplishments
In teaching about Helen Keller, it is important to highlight her achievements. Discuss how she went to college, wrote books and articles, and went on to become a spokesperson for the American Foundation for the Blind. Highlighting these achievements shows students that disabilities do not have to limit a person’s life opportunities.
4. Encourage Empathy
Teachers can use Helen Keller’s story to help students appreciate individuals with disabilities. Ask students to imagine themselves in Helen’s shoes and how different their world would be. Encourage them to think about the challenges people with disabilities face daily.