Hidden Figures Worksheet Answers and Study Guide

Uncovering the Hidden Figures of NASA's History

Hidden Figures, a book by Margot Lee Shetterly, tells the story of African-American women who worked as mathematicians and engineers at NASA during the early years of the space program. The book highlights the contributions of these women, including Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, who played a crucial role in the success of NASA’s missions. This study guide and worksheet answers will help you delve deeper into the world of Hidden Figures and understand the significance of their work.

Chapter 1: A Door Ajar

• Summary: The first chapter introduces us to the world of NASA’s Langley Research Center, where a group of African-American women work as mathematicians and engineers.
• Key Terms:
  • National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA)
  • Langley Research Center
  • West Computers
• Questions:
  1. What was the main occupation of the African-American women at Langley Research Center?
  2. What was the significance of the “West Computers”?
  3. What was the name of the department where Katherine Johnson worked?

Answers: 1. The main occupation of the African-American women at Langley Research Center was mathematicians and engineers. 2. The “West Computers” referred to the group of African-American women who worked as mathematicians and engineers at Langley Research Center. 3. Katherine Johnson worked in the Flight Dynamics Branch.

📝 Note: The "West Computers" was a segregated facility where African-American women worked as mathematicians and engineers.

Chapter 2: Mobilization

• Summary: The second chapter explores the mobilization of women in the workforce during World War II and the subsequent hiring of African-American women at NASA.
• Key Terms:
  • World War II
  • Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps (WAAC)
  • Executive Order 8802
• Questions:
  1. What event led to the mobilization of women in the workforce?
  2. What was the significance of Executive Order 8802?
  3. What was the name of the organization that hired African-American women at NASA?

Answers: 1. World War II led to the mobilization of women in the workforce. 2. Executive Order 8802 prohibited discrimination in the defense industry based on race, creed, color, or national origin. 3. The organization that hired African-American women at NASA was the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA).

Chapter 3: Past is Prologue

• Summary: The third chapter delves into the early life of Katherine Johnson and her journey to becoming a mathematician at NASA.
• Key Terms:
  • White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
  • West Virginia State College
  • Langley Research Center
• Questions:
  1. Where was Katherine Johnson born?
  2. What college did Katherine Johnson attend?
  3. Where did Katherine Johnson work as a mathematician?

Answers: 1. Katherine Johnson was born in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. 2. Katherine Johnson attended West Virginia State College. 3. Katherine Johnson worked as a mathematician at Langley Research Center.

📝 Note: Katherine Johnson was a talented mathematician who was hired at NASA without a formal degree.

Conclusion

The story of Hidden Figures highlights the significant contributions of African-American women to NASA’s success during the early years of the space program. Through their determination and hard work, these women broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations. The book serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.