Martin Luther King Jr. Writing Triptych Activity {Bilingual}

Looking for meaningful ways to engage children in celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day? This writing triptych activity inspires students to reflect on Dr. King’s vision while developing their writing and critical thinking skills.

Inspiring Students on Martin Luther King Jr. Day with Creative Writing Activities

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's speech has been on my mind a lot the last few weeks. Last year, I created a writing activity for children in upper elementary/lower middle school. And earlier this week I shared a free, simple color-by-number activity for introducing Martin Luther King, Jr. to younger children in preschool and lower elementary.

Martin Luther King Jr. Writing Triptych Activity

But I have one more printable I want to share. It is designed to make children think about what they would like to see happen in our country. In this writing triptych, kids can read a little bit about Martin Luther King, Jr. and read some quotes from his famous speech. They can color it, and draw or paste a picture of themselves on one of the folds of the triptych. Then they can think about the quotes and write a few words (short paragraph) sharing their own hopes for this country.

This printable activity encourages students to think deeply about their own hopes and dreams for the country. Designed for upper elementary and lower middle school students, it offers a creative way to explore Dr. King’s powerful message.

What’s Included:

• A brief introduction to Martin Luther King Jr.
  
• Inspiring quotes from Dr. King’s "I Have a Dream" speech.
  
• Space for students to color and personalize the triptych by drawing or pasting a picture of themselves.
  
• A writing prompt encouraging students to reflect on the quotes and share their own vision for the country in a short paragraph.

Available in both English and Spanish, this activity is perfect for classrooms and at-home learning.

How Parents Can Use This at Home

Parents can use the writing triptych to spark thoughtful conversations and promote creativity:

• Story Time Connection: Start by reading a book about Martin Luther King Jr. to provide context and inspiration.
  
  
• Personal Reflection: Encourage your child to discuss their thoughts on the quotes and write about their own dreams for a better future.
  
  
• Art Integration: Let your child add vibrant colors and personal touches to the triptych, making the activity both educational and fun.

These activities help children connect with Dr. King’s message while fostering family discussions on important values.

How Teachers Can Use This in the Classroom

Teachers can integrate this activity into language arts or social studies lessons:

• Classroom Discussions: Use the quotes as discussion starters to explore themes of equality, justice, and hope.
  
  
• Group Projects: Have students present their completed triptychs to the class, sharing their reflections and hopes.
  
  
• Cross-Curricular Learning: Combine the activity with a history lesson on the civil rights movement or a study of persuasive speeches.

The activity’s bilingual format ensures accessibility for diverse classrooms, making it a valuable resource for celebrating MLK Day.

Other MLK Resources

I would recommend that you pair this activity with one of the books from my list of 5 Books to Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Read the book(s) first and then hand out the activity and give your student(s) time to complete it.

The activity is available in English and Spanish and you can find it here in my TpT store.

Enjoy!

Other Posts You May Enjoy

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• Martin Luther King Jr. Bilingual Writing Activity
  
  
• Racial Justice & Equity Glossary Packet
  
  
• 5+ Videos for Kids on How to Draw Martin Luther King Jr.
  
  
• Teach for Justice Lesson Plans
  
  

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