9 of 9 results for "speech"
Video
Martin Luther King Jr. and the March on Washington

In Martin Luther King Jr. and the March on Washington, we learn about the historic 1963 March on Washington, when hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Washington, D.C. to demand civil rights and equality. At the center of the event is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who delivers the “I Have a Dream” speech — one of the most famous and important speeches in American history.

This video is a meaningful way to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day or to help students understand the role of peaceful protest in a democracy. Excerpted from BBC’s Reputations: Martin Luther King – Days of Hope, it highlights Dr. King’s leadership, his commitment to nonviolent protest, and the lasting impact of the Civil Rights Movement.

Video
Winston Churchil, Leader

In Winston Churchill, Leader, host Trevor McDonald examines how Winston Churchill led Britain through its darkest days during World War II. With relentless Nazi advances and a nation on the brink of collapse, Churchill made difficult decisions and inspired the British people with his iconic speeches. Gain insight into his leadership during the Blitz and the invasion threats from Nazi Germany. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, a documentary series celebrating the achievements of the most influential figures of the era.

Video
Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil Rights Icon

In Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil Rights Icon, students learn how the Civil Rights Movement found its leader in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., an activist, preacher, and powerful speaker who believed in achieving change through non-violent action. The video explains why Dr. King emerged as a central figure during a time when millions of Americans were fighting for equal rights and justice.

Excerpted from BBC’s Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, this documentary clip helps students understand what made Dr. King an icon — not just for his words, but for his leadership, courage, and lasting influence. Using historical footage and clear storytelling, it introduces key ideas of the Civil Rights Movement in a way that is accessible and engaging.

This short video works well as an introduction to Martin Luther King Jr., a foundation for learning about the Civil Rights Movement, or a discussion starter about leadership, activism, and democracy. Teachers can easily use it to support lessons around Martin Luther King Jr. Day, civic responsibility, and the power of individuals to inspire change.

Printable
The Story of Martin Luther King Jr., Printable Activities for Grades 3-8

This set of Martin Luther King Jr. worksheets contains two versions, so you can use the version that's closest to the grade level you teach or use both based on the individual reading levels of the students in your class. Here's what you'll find:

  • Reading Passage: "Martin Luther King Jr.: A Man With a Dream," covering that life and legacy of MLK.
    • Version A: Grades 3-5, Lexile Level 700-900L
    • Version B: Grades 6-8, Lexile Level 850-1000L
  • Glossary: Grade-level appropriate vocabulary and definitions to help students better understand the passage.
  • Worksheets: KWL, timeline, and reflection (Version A); important events chart, Venn diagram, "Iconic Influences" response (Version B). 

These activities pair with the following videos:

  1. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Story in Song
  2. Our Black History Heroes: Martin Luther King Jr.
  3. Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil Rights Icon
Video
Martin Luther King Jr.'s Conflicting Politics

In Martin Luther King Jr.'s Conflicting Politics, historian Lucy Worsley learns that although Martin Luther King Jr. campaigned for Civil Rights, he didn't have the same beliefs of equality for men and women. Women were not allowed to speak at the March in Washington. This video is excerpted from BBC's American History's Biggest Fibs with Lucy Worsley, in which Worsley reveals the myths and manipulations behind American history.

Student Article
Martin Luther King’s Dream: The Speech That Changed America

The article "Martin Luther King’s Dream: The Speech That Changed America" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores the origins, message, and legacy of the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. Delivered during the 1963 March on Washington, King’s words captured the hopes of the civil rights movement. The article examines the speech’s impact, historical setting, rhetorical power, and enduring relevance today.

Playlist (15 resources)
Icons of the 20th Century Video Playlist

Meet the Icons of the 20th Century. From brilliant scientists and inspiring activists to legendary athletes and artists, these remarkable individuals changed the world in powerful ways. In this video playlist of clips from BBC's Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, meet Muhammad Ali, Helen Keller, Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr., Pablo Picasso, Jane Goodall, Pelé, Billie Holiday and others — each a trailblazer who shaped history through courage, creativity, and conviction. A perfect playlist to inspire young minds to think big and act boldly!

Video
Got Science?: How Dogs Understand Us

In How Dogs Understand Us, host Harith Iskander explores how dogs process human speech. Research suggests that dogs think similarly to humans, as their brains use the left side to understand the meaning of words and the right side to interpret emotions or tone. By studying dog brains in an MRI machine, scientists have discovered that dogs not only hear what we say but also feel the emotions behind it. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Got Science?, a science magazine series that explores and explains science in everyday life.

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Albert Einstein's Revolutionary Mind

In Albert Einstein's Revolutionary Mind, host Chris Packham explores how Einstein revolutionized physics and defied convention. As a Jewish refugee and devout pacifist, Einstein’s ideas on time, space, and morality inspired both scientific breakthroughs and social justice. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century, a documentary series celebrating the achievements of the most influential figures of the era.