20 High School Black History Month Project-Based Learning Driving Question Ideas

When I hear the phrase Black History Month project, I immediately think of opportunities to create meaningful, student-led experiences that celebrate Black history, achievements, culture, and contributions. That is the gist of this blog post - Black History Month Project-Based Learning ideas. But what about the rest of the year? 

Here’s the thing: Black history isn’t just for February! One of the coolest things about project-based learning (PBL) is that it’s inherently multidisciplinary, which means you can (and should!) weave Black history into your curriculum all year long.

As an experiential science teacher, I’m always looking for ways to integrate Black history into my classroom, whether it’s highlighting groundbreaking scientists, exploring innovations by Black inventors, or connecting scientific principles to real-world stories.

With PBL, the learning goes deeper than a one-off project or presentation. Unlike traditional “projects” that often focus on following a set of instructions to create a single product, project-based learning is rooted in inquiry, problem-solving, collaboration, and authentic outcomes. It’s about empowering students to tackle real-world questions that matter to them and producing work that has impact beyond the classroom.

So, while the PBL driving question ideas in this blog post are designed with Black History Month in mind, they’re a springboard for so much more. Don’t limit yourself (or your students) to just one month. Black history can (and should!) be acknowledged and celebrated in powerful, meaningful ways all year long.

What is a PBL driving question, and why does it matter?

At the heart of any great project-based learning experience is a well-crafted driving question. A driving question is the anchor for the entire project. It sets the tone, frames the challenge, and sparks curiosity. It’s a question that’s open-ended, thought-provoking, and action-oriented.

Here’s how I like to structure my PBL driving questions:

1. Question Phrase: Starting with words such as how can, what if, or why does to prompt exploration.
2. Action-Taker: Identifying who will be doing the work (e.g., "students," "our class," or "community members").
3. Action: Outlining what they’ll do, such as create a brochure, develop a tool, teach a class, etc.
4. Recipient: Identifying the authentic audience.
5. Impact: Highlighting the purpose or outcome of the experience, the problem it solves, and/or who or what will benefit.

Here's an example driving question for a Black History Month project-based learning experience that my high school students do: 

"How can our class create a portfolio of information and learning activities for teachers that illuminates diverse role models in science and engineering to inspire all children to see careers in STEM as exciting and feasible?"

Essentially, my students develop their own experiential learning activities related to black history, compile it in a folder, on a website, in a booklet, or some other format to be shared with teachers to use with their own young students. 

I love this particular PBL design because it’s flexible and relevant. Students can complete it entirely in the classroom, which is great for educators who can’t arrange outbound experiences, but it’s adaptable enough to include those opportunities if possible.

It’s also meaningful, personalized, and impactful, helping students build essential skills like tech literacy, communication, collaboration, and community connections, all within a real-world context.

As you read through the 20 Black History Month project driving questions in this post, keep these elements in mind.

Also, you'll notice that each driving question idea connects to a variety of subjects and concepts, including art, history, science, math, writing, literature, engineering, and more.

Finally, you'll find that each project includes opportunities to build various 21st- century skills such as effective communication and problem-solving.

If one of the questions doesn’t quite align with your learning objectives or your students’ interests, no problem! Use these as inspiration to write your own driving questions tailored to your needs. You can download my FREE driving question writing tool here.

And, if you need a little extra help with PBL planning, research, and facilitation, grab my PBL Starter Kit. This will walk you and your students through crafting and executing incredible project-based learning experiences. Happy PBL-ing!

20 Black History Month Project Driving Question Ideas

1. How can our class design an interactive museum to teach our school community about the contributions of Black inventors and inspire innovation? 

2. How can our class create a documentary that highlights local Black leaders and empower others to pursue leadership roles in our community?

3. How can our class design a children’s book about unsung Black historical figures to educate young readers and foster curiosity about Black history?

4. How can our class organize a community storytelling event by inviting local Black leaders, innovators, and citizens to share their experiences and inspire greater unity and understanding within our school and local community?

5. How can our class develop a social media campaign to showcase the achievements of Black artists and motivate others to explore diverse forms of creative expression?

6. How can our class write and perform a play about pivotal moments in the Civil Rights Movement to educate our community and inspire social activism?

7. How can our class create a community mural that honors local Black history and strengthen the connection between our school and its neighborhood?

8. How can our class design a resource guide on historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to inform prospective students and promote access to higher education?

9. How can our class produce a podcast series featuring interviews with Black community members to preserve oral histories and celebrate their contributions?

10. How can our class recreate iconic Black history photos, stage new versions, and host a gallery to educate our community on their significance and lasting impact?

11. How can our class design an interactive timeline that celebrates Black pioneers in science and technology, helping students and community members discover their contributions to modern innovation?

12. How can our class create a multimedia exhibit that honors Black artists from the Harlem Renaissance, inspiring visitors to connect with their artwork and its cultural significance?

13. How can our class write and create historical fiction books on local Black history heroes, sharing their stories with the community to inspire future generations of leaders?

14. How can our class design an educational app that teaches middle school students about the Black Civil Rights Movement, encouraging them to actively engage in social justice issues today?

15. How can our class create a series of workshops about Black athletes who changed the sports world, motivating young athletes to embrace perseverance and diversity in sports?

16. How can our class organize a virtual Black History Month symposium, where high school students from across the district present their research on Black trailblazers, fostering pride and unity in our diverse community?

17. How can our class create a “Black History Heroes” comic book, inspiring young readers to learn about unsung figures in history and encourage them to take action toward positive social change?

18. How can our class develop a Black History Month-themed interactive website that showcases local Black history, allowing visitors to explore key events and figures, and promoting deeper understanding across generations?

19. How can our class write and publish a collection of poems inspired by the works of Black poets, offering readers a chance to reflect on the ongoing journey of racial equality and cultural pride?

20. How can our class produce an original musical performance that highlights the contributions of Black musicians throughout history, blending their genres and stories to inspire a new generation of artists and listeners to celebrate diversity and creativity in music?

​Incorporating Black history into your classroom through project-based learning is an exciting way to engage students in meaningful, real-world exploration.

Whether it's diving into the stories of Black athletes, musicians, or leaders, these projects inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of history's impact on the present.

Remember, project-based learning isn’t just about finishing a task and moving on. It’s about sparking curiosity, encouraging collaboration, fostering personal growth, and leaving a lasting impact on both the students and the greater community.

So, as you dive into these driving questions, think beyond Black History Month and find ways to integrate these powerful stories year-round.

By doing so, you're not just teaching history, you're empowering students to connect with and contribute to the world around them.

Ready to start your Black History Month project-based learning experience? Let's do it! Of course, reach out with questions whenever!

Black History Month Project-Based Learning Resources:

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