Teaching The Movie Selma (2014) in 2026

Resources for teaching the movie Selma in 2026 in ELA classes

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Cara, HS English & Film teacher

B.A. English Lit + B.S. Film & TV (Boston University), M.Ed. Teaching 9th grade in Los Angeles.

brb, teaching English 9 and Film Studies Seminar

Hello!

I am working on some resources for the movie, Selma, but as I imagine this week may feel hard or overwhelming, I'm sharing what I'm currently working on for Selma in case you may be able to take any of what I currently have and run with it yourself.

So far I have:

3 referenced speeches in the film
transcriptions of the film's adaptations + the original speeches inspired by (you can compare/contrast them)
High Level Essential Questions for the Film
Viewing Questions for the film - broken into 4 parts that can fit into 50+ minute classes

More ideas to come, but you could show the film and have students research / make connections with what's here. Linked in The Planning Room Library and below.

Comment or email if you need additional support!