Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King with this craft and writing display perfect for students in kindergarten, first grade, or second grade!
Each year, my students really enjoy learning about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This MLK Craftivity is always one of their favorites of the year. This bulletin board bundle includes everything you need to create the scene in the photo above – craft templates, directions, your choice of differentiated writing templates, and bulletin board display letters. Simply print and go!
~Update as of January 2022: The original MLK Bulletin Board Bundle has now been updated to include more clip art options for Dr. King’s face, a NO PREP paper topper option, more differentiated writing templates, PLUS bonus bulletin board lettering! The original version is still included as well if that’s the one you prefer. If you already own the file, simply download it again to receive the updated version.
Prepping for the craft is as easy as 1, 2, 3…
1. Choose a face template from a variety of options included. If you are using the original version, teacher tips are included to help with assembly of the face and 3D collared shirt.
2. Choose your writing template. Differentiated templates are included for writers in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade.
3. Have your students cut and color the craft. Attach the writing, and display with the lettering.
Use remaining prompts throughout the month of January or during Black History Month in February!
Teaching your students about Dr. King
For this lesson, I first begin by reading the book Martin’s Big Words. There is also a great read-aloud video on YouTube if you don’t have the book. I also use the Let’s Find Out weekly readers in my classroom, and there is usually one each year for Martin Luther King, Jr.
Have your students get to work!
I like to have my students complete the writing portion first followed by the craft. My kids do very well when I make the activity a step-by-step craft. I usually do crafts with the whole-group. My kids especially love creating the 3D collars for Dr. King’s shirt! Once we have the entire craft put together, I like to call each student to the author’s chair to read about his/her dream to make the world a better place.
If you use this bulletin board in your classroom, I would love to see a picture. Please tag me on Instagram @kindergartenkornerbycasey.
I hope you enjoy celebrating Dr. King in your classroom this January.
Casey Stewart is a kindergarten teacher and founder of Kindergarten Korner. She has 17 years of experience teaching in kindergarten, first, and second grade. She created http://www.kindergartenkorner.com to inspire fellow educators and help guide parents and homeschooling families on their journey throughout the magical kindergarten experience. Casey also has three kids of her own at home. Learn more about her HERE.
I love this activity.