Analyzing “The End of White Innocence” by Cathy Park Hong

Analyzing “The End of White Innocence” by Cathy Park Hong

This 11-12th English lesson plan challenges students to consider themes related to shame, racial identity, and privilege while reading Cathy Park Hong’s “The End of White Innocence.” Videos and a socratic seminar format will educate students about the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 and how it relates to Hong’s argument. A creative writing assignment will help students craft their own pieces related to identity using Hong as an inspiration.

Lesson Objectives:

1. Understand the history behind the 1965 Immigration Act and its impact on demography, politics, and historical development.

2. Rethink the notion of “shame” in relation to the Asian-American identity and to the end of white innocence.

3. Recognize how the author uses personal anecdotes to support her argument on racial trauma.

This lesson plan kit includes:

• Read-aloud of "The End of White Innocence" from author Cathy Park Hong

• Educator Instructions + Resources

• Discussion Questions

• Literary Journaling Assignment + Socratic Seminar

Essential Questions:

1. What is the 1965 Immigration Act and its legacy today?

2. How can literature be used to empower the Asian-American identity?

The standards covered in this lesson: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.11-12.2.B, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.11-12.2.C, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.11-12.2.D, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.11-12.2.E

Lesson plan created by Hayley Kang and Morgan Yen in partnership with OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates

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