dream raisin

Draw

Draw what you think of when you hear the phrase "The American Dream".

Open Ended

How does the message of the video connect with Hansberry's message about the realities of the American Dream?

Casey warns that celebrating exceptional stories risks ignoring these broader issues and blaming individuals for their hardships, mirroring Hansberry's critique of an American Dream that overlooks marginalized communities' obstacles.

Video and Play

​The video and Hansberry both challenge the idea of the American Dream, arguing that systemic problems, not just individual failures, create hardship.

Match

Match each character on the right with their specific interpretation of the American Dream on the left

• This character envisions a future where the Younger family thrives, free from financial constraints. They yearn for the respect and fulfillment they believe wealth will bring.

• This character aspires to become a doctor, seeking education and self-identity in a world that often dismisses their ambitions as unrealistic.

• This character desires a stable home for the Younger family, believing that owning a house symbolizes success and security.

Walter Younger

Beneatha Younger

Mama

• Walter Younger

• Beneatha Younger

• Mama

Match

Match the following characters with their dreams.

• Mama

• Beneatha

• Ruth

• Walter

grow a garden

find her identity and become a doctor

have a safe and loving home for her children

become the head of the family & own a liquor store

• grow a garden

• find her identity and become a doctor

• have a safe and loving home for her children

• become the head of the family & own a liquor store

Open Ended

What is your own version of the American Dream? What hurdles do you foresee in achieving that dream?

Dropdown

Complete the sentence below by filling in the appropriate word(s):

Gender norms are ​

Select answer

as they force individuals to overcome societal ​

Select answer

and constant judgment in the pursuit of their ​

Select answer

​ .

Open Ended

What are some other "societal hurdles" that the Youngers face in the play? Give specific examples.