Inside the resource
A creative way to meet Maya Angelou
-
One printable coloring page
A detailed black-and-white portrait designed for easy classroom or home printing.
-
Literary details to explore
Books, pens, ink, a typewriter, and caged-bird imagery invite conversation about Maya Angelou’s writing.
-
A message of resilience
The words “And Still I Rise” connect the activity to courage, confidence, and finding your voice.
-
Flexible classroom use
Use it for Black History Month, poetry units, early finishers, quiet reflection, libraries, or homeschool.
Activity at a glance
Turn coloring time into thoughtful learning
-
Meet Maya
Share a short biography and introduce Maya Angelou as a poet, author, performer, educator, and activist.
-
Notice the symbols
Invite students to identify the books, writing tools, bird, and other visual details, then discuss what they may represent.
-
Color and reflect
As students color, ask them to respond to the prompt: What helps your voice rise?
-
Share by choice
Close with an optional pair-share, gallery walk, or written reflection about resilience and self-expression.
Learning outcomes
What students can take with them
-
Literary awareness
Recognize Maya Angelou as an influential American writer and cultural voice.
-
Visual literacy
Connect symbols in the illustration to themes of writing, freedom, perseverance, and expression.
-
Personal reflection
Consider how courage and creativity can help people express their ideas.
-
Creative expression
Make individual artistic choices while engaging with Black literary history.
Teaching notes
Simple, flexible, and ready to print
- Suggested grades: 3–5
- Suggested time: 20–30 minutes
- Subjects: Art, English Language Arts, and Social Studies
- Format: One printable PNG page
