Lau v. Nichols (1974)
Lesson Plan
Students review the Supreme Court decision that required public schools to provide language supports to English and multilingual learners.
Overview
This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court’s decision that required public schools to provide language supports to English and multilingual learners (ELs/MLs). Students learn how Lau’s arguments relate to the landmark case, Brown v. Board of Education (1954), and how the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects public school students from discrimination.
Grade Levels
- 6-8
- 9-12
Learning Objectives
- Describe rights protected by the Civil Rights Act of 1964
- Identify the main arguments put forth in the case
- Describe the rationale behind the Supreme Court’s decision
- Identify the impact of the Supreme Court’s decision on English Learners and public schools