Chapter 5: Using History Labs to Examine Immigration Policy and the Dream Act

Immigration policy is a relevant topic for today’s elementary social studies methods students as they enter classrooms that include the children of immigrant families, both documented and undocumented. Instructors may find conversations about immigration difficult to lead without a proper framework for discussion in place. Using a history lab framework to examine controversial issues provides structure, teaches critical historical thinking skills, and allows preservice teachers to experience a meaningful and productive conversation that focuses on evidence instead of just opinions. This chapter includes a sample lab activity which focuses on the DREAM Act.