Paired Texts > Lyndon Baines Johnson and the Great Society

by Mike Kubic

2017

We've identified these texts as great options for text pairings based on similar themes, literary devices, topic, or writing style. Supplement your lesson with one or more of these options and challenge students to compare and contrast the texts. To assign a paired text, click on the text to go to its page and click the "Assign Text" button there.

10th Grade Speech 1070L
We Shall Overcome Speech
  • President Lyndon B. Johnson
  • 1965

This rousing speech by President Lyndon B. Johnson was delivered right after civil rights protesters were brutally beaten on “Bloody Sunday.” This speech is considered one of the best presidential speeches in history, and eventually led to The Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Pair “We Shall Overcome Speech” with “Lyndon Baines Johnson and the Great Society” and ask students to discuss what the two texts reveal about Johnson. How does the description of Johnson in Mike Kubic’s text compare to how Johnson presents himself? Does Johnson appear as forceful in his speech as he is described in Kubic’s text?

8th Grade Informational Text 1200L
The Voting Rights Act of 1965
  • Jessica McBirney
  • 2016

The impetus for and impact of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 are discussed in this informational text.

Pair “The Voting Rights Act of 1965” with “Lyndon Baines Johnson and the Great Society” to provide students with additional information on one of the legislations that contributed to Johnson’s Great Society. Ask students to discuss in greater detail the effects that the Voting Rights Act had on America and Johnson’s presidency.