Emma Lazarus - The New Colossus

This activity requires students to analyze the famous sonnet The New Colossus (which is a casting on the base of the Statue of Liberty's pedestal). Students must then compare and contrast, provide examples of its symbolism and analyze the meaning of the poem. See lesson plan for this activity below

Lesson Plan: Understanding "The New Colossus"

Grade Level:

6th–8th Grade

Time Needed:

45–60 minutes

Objective:

  • Students will identify key themes and symbols in the poem "The New Colossus" by Emma Lazarus.
  • Students will understand the historical context of the poem and its connection to the Statue of Liberty.
  • Students will build vocabulary and interpret figurative language.
  • Students will develop visual and critical thinking skills by analyzing imagery and symbolism.

Materials:

  • Copies of “The New Colossus” poem
  • Student question sheet
  • Whiteboard or chart paper
  • Markers
  • Images of the Statue of Liberty and the Colossus of Rhodes

Warm-Up Activity (10 minutes):

Ask students: “What do you think the Statue of Liberty stands for?” Record their answers on the board. Then show a brief image or slide comparing the Statue of Liberty and the Colossus of Rhodes. Prompt discussion on how statues can carry meaning or symbolism.

Vocabulary Preview (10 minutes):

Review these key terms from the poem:

  • Brazen: bold, made of brass
  • Conquering: taking control, defeating
  • Exiles: people forced to leave their country
  • Beacon: a guiding light or signal
  • Storied pomp: grand traditions or prideful history
  • Tempest-tost: thrown about by storms; troubled

Guided Reading & Discussion (20 minutes):

Distribute or projectthe poem. Read it aloud once as a class, then have students read it silently. Ask:

  • Who is the speaker in the poem?
  • What does the “Mother of Exiles” represent?
  • How is the tone different from a war memorial?

Group or Independent Work (15 minutes):

Students complete the four comprehension and analysis questions:

  1. Which lines do you think represent hope to would-be immigrants? Explain.
  2. “The New Colossus” is full of symbolism. Draw three images from the poem and describe what each refers to.
  3. What might Lazarus mean by “Imprisoned Lightning?”
  4. How does Lazarus contrast the Statue of Liberty with the Colossus of Rhodes?

Wrap-Up (5 minutes):

Invite a few students to share one image they drew or one line that stood out to them. Revisit the warm-up question: Did their ideas about the Statue of Liberty change after reading the poem?

Extension Ideas:

  • Create a class mural or collage showing symbols of hope and freedom, including images inspired by the poem.
  • Write a modern version of “The New Colossus” welcoming newcomers to America today.
  • Explore immigration stories and connect them to the themes in the poem.