Mahatma Gandhi | Civil Rights Leader | Readers Theater Script

This Mahatma Gandhi Historical Figure Readers Theater Script engages students in an interactive narrative instead of reading a dry history textbook. Abigail and Benjamin follow Mahatma Gandhi’s life and efforts for India’s independence

Script Summary:

This script highlights his nonviolent philosophy (Satyagraha), his global moral stance (like writing to Hitler), and his role in the Quit India Movement. Major events include the Salt March, the Kingsley Hall address on spiritual truths, and debates with figures like Ambedkar. Though independence was achieved, Gandhi’s dream of unity was challenged by partition. His ideas influenced future civil rights struggles worldwide, teaching that truth, patience, and love can overcome injustice.

This product includes a zip file consisting of:

1) Readers Theater Script

• ~10 Characters, 1500 words, PDF & Editable DOCX Formats (7 pages)
• Includes factual historical information, primary source quotes, and narrative storytelling
• Themes & Discussion Question Prompts

2) Comprehensive Script Worksheet

• Includes Answer Key, Google Slides & PDF Formats (4 Pages | 17 Slides)
• 10 Vocabulary Words: Definitions based on the context of the script to build historical literacy
• 10 Short-Answer Questions: Comprehension and recall questions based solely on the script, ensuring students can analyze the content without requiring additional research.
• Long-Format Writing Questions: Encourage deeper reflection and analysis, including one primary source exploration question.

3) Three Primary Source Documents

• Gandhi The 'Quit India' Speech 1942
• Gandhi Letter to Adolf Hitler December 24, 1940
• Gandhi Address at Kingsley Hall London, 17 October 1931
• Full Primary Source Text, PDF & DOCX Formats (15 pages)

Teaching Tips for Using the Script:

• For digital classrooms, upload the DOCX Script and convert to Google docs
• For More Students: Main character can be read by multiple students.
• For Less Students: Minor characters can be read by just one student.
• This script should take about ~25 minutes and depending on your classroom's level it may be suitable for other grade levels.
• An extra ~25 minutes for prep, discussion, vocabulary or short answer comprehension questions should also be planned.

Historical Figures Readers Theater Note: This resource is part of a series dedicated to notable civil rights leaders.