Grades 9–12 | ELA + Art
This standards-aligned, culturally responsive activity bundle helps students analyze how fashion communicates power, identity, and leadership through a close reading of Aaron Foley’s op-ed Mary Sheffield’s White Suit.
Students explore symbolism, author’s purpose, and Detroit culture while engaging in critical reading, discussion, creative writing, argument writing, and visual art.
What’s Included:
Close & Critical Reading of the op-ed
Text-Dependent Questions (symbolism, leadership, culture)
Fashion, Symbolism & Detroit Culture Graphic Organizer
Visual Art: Design an outfit representing Detroit today
Creative Writing: Poetry assignment
Argument Writing: Fashion & leadership
Common Core ELA Standards (Grades 9–12)
Perfect For:
ELA classrooms (9–12)
Culturally responsive teaching
Detroit-centered or place-based learning
Cross-curricular ELA + Art lessons
This resource invites students to read culture as text—and see leadership reflected in everyday choices.