"Hidden Figures" is a remarkable film that celebrates the contributions of African-American women mathematicians at NASA during the space race. This movie not only entertains but also educates viewers about the often overlooked role of women, particularly women of color, in America's scientific achievements. To enhance the educational value of this film, consider the following seven insightful questions for your Hidden Figures movie worksheet.
1. Identify the Three Main Characters and Their Unique Contributions
- Katherine Johnson: How does Katherine’s expertise in mathematics influence the success of NASA’s missions, and what personal and professional challenges does she overcome?
- Dorothy Vaughan: Discuss Dorothy’s role in bridging the gap between old and new technology through her self-taught programming skills. How does she pave the way for future engineers?
- Mary Jackson: Explain Mary’s journey to become NASA’s first female African-American engineer. What hurdles did she face in her educational and career path?
These three characters each faced significant barriers due to their race and gender. By identifying their contributions, viewers can appreciate their individual struggles and triumphs, which underscore the film's themes of perseverance and pioneering spirit.
2. Analyze the Role of Racism and Sexism
- Racial Segregation: How does the film portray racial segregation in the workplace? Consider scenes that illustrate both blatant and subtle forms of racism.
- Gender Inequality: Discuss how gender inequality is depicted in “Hidden Figures.” How do Katherine, Dorothy, and Mary navigate or challenge these inequalities?
- Intersectionality: Explore how the intersection of race and gender creates unique challenges for the protagonists. How do these dual issues shape their experiences?
The film vividly showcases the intersectional discrimination these women encountered, providing a clear lesson on social inequalities. Analyzing these themes helps understand the historical context of civil rights and women's rights movements.
3. Discuss the Importance of Mentorship and Support
- What examples of mentorship are highlighted in the movie? How do these relationships influence the personal and professional growth of the characters?
- How does the community and family support contribute to the success of these women?
- What role does interracial and intergender mentorship play in the story?
👀 Note: Mentorship and support are crucial elements in personal development and career advancement. "Hidden Figures" highlights how these elements can create change within rigid systems.
4. Impact of NASA’s Space Race on Civil Rights
- How did the urgency of the space race and NASA’s need for talent open doors for African-American women at NASA?
- Analyze the moments when civil rights and space exploration intersect in the film.
The Cold War era and the race to space played an unexpected role in advancing civil rights, showcasing how national urgency can sometimes override prejudice.
5. Mathematics and Scientific Inquiry
- What mathematical principles are emphasized in “Hidden Figures,” and how do they relate to real-world applications?
- Discuss the value of scientific inquiry in overcoming challenges, as illustrated in the movie.
The film demonstrates the power of human intelligence and precision when harnessed in pursuit of grand goals. Mathematics and science are not just abstract concepts but tools for progress.
6. Representation in Film
- How does “Hidden Figures” contribute to the representation of African-American women in film?
- What is the significance of telling these stories through cinema?
By showcasing stories of lesser-known heroes, films like "Hidden Figures" play a pivotal role in reshaping historical narratives to include diverse perspectives.
7. The Emotional Resonance of the Film
- Which scenes evoke strong emotions, and how do these moments enhance the film’s message?
- Discuss the balance between factual history and the dramatization used in the storytelling.
The film's ability to emotionally engage its audience helps communicate its themes and messages effectively, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
In sum, “Hidden Figures” provides an enriching experience that transcends entertainment. By exploring these questions, viewers delve deeper into the themes of race, gender, technology, and history, fostering a greater understanding of the film’s impact on both the characters’ lives and our collective understanding of the past.
What are the names of the three main characters in “Hidden Figures”?
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The three main characters are Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson.
Why are their stories significant in history?
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Their stories are significant because they highlight the contributions of African-American women to NASA’s success, overcoming racial and gender barriers during a pivotal time in U.S. history.
How did NASA’s culture change due to these women?
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NASA’s culture began to evolve, embracing diversity in the workplace. Their work and advocacy paved the way for more inclusive hiring practices and opportunities for people from underrepresented groups.
