Rizal 101

Life and Works of Dr. Jose Rizal

Name Superales, Charlote G. Course and YearBSCE-2

Worksheet 1: Biography and Early Life

Topics:

• Birth, family, and early influences

• Education and travels

Activities:

1. Timeline Exercise: Plot major milestones in Rizal's early life.

1861 – Born on June 19 in Calamba, Laguna.

1865 – Death of his sister Concha, which deeply affected him.

1869 – Wrote his first poem, Sa Aking Mga Kabata, emphasizing love for one’s native language.

1870 – Studied under Maestro Justiniano Aquino Cruz in Biñan.

1872 – Left for Manila to study at Ateneo Municipal.

2. Family Tree: Draw Rizal’s family tree and identify influential family members.
 3. Reflection Question: How did Rizal’s family background and education shape his
views?

The virtues of education, hard work, and patriotism were strongly ingrained in Rizal’s
family. His character was shaped by his father’s values of honesty and hard work, while
his mother’s instruction piqued his intellectual interest. His brother Paciano shaped his
nationalist outlook by exposing him to political ideologies and the inequities of Spanish
authority. The foundation for his subsequent accomplishments was laid by his early
education under rigorous but motivating professors.

Worksheet 2: Rizal’s Nationalistic Ideas

Topics:

• Rizal’s hopes for peaceful reforms

• Concept of Filipino identity

Activities:

1. Reading Passage: Interpret an excerpt from Noli Me Tangere on Filipino identity.

“I have thought of the future, and though I see many obstacles, my heart beats high with hope.
The country of my birth shall be free and independent, and its sons shall be free men. If we have
to die for it, then so be it!”

This passage reflects José Rizal’s deep love for his country and his hope for a free and
independent Philippines. Despite acknowledging the challenges ahead, he expresses unwavering
faith in the Filipino people’s ability to achieve self-determination. His vision was not just
political freedom but also the cultural and intellectual awakening of the Filipino identity.

2. Discussion Questions: What was unique about Rizal’s vision for the Philippines?

José Rizal’s vision for the Philippines was centered on education, enlightenment, and peaceful
reform, rather than armed conflict. He aimed to reclaim Filipino identity, dignity, and rights
through knowledge and unity. Rizal’s vision emphasized long-term societal transformation
through peaceful means, inspiring future generations and forming the foundation of Filipino
nationalism today.

3. Comparison Activity: Compare Rizal’s nationalism with other Filipino heroes.

José Rizal’s nationalism centered on peaceful reform through education, writing, and advocacy
for equal rights, as seen in his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. In contrast, Andrés
Bonifacio pursued armed revolution through the Katipunan, seeking total independence from
Spain. Emilio Aguinaldo combined military resistance with political leadership, eventually
becoming the first President of the Philippine Republic. Apolinario Mabini advocated for
constitutional reform and moral governance, shaping the nation’s legal foundations. Meanwhile,
Gabriela Silang led armed resistance in Ilocos after her husband’s assassination, symbolizing
defiant patriotism. While their approaches differed, all shared a deep commitment to Philippine
freedom and independence.

Worksheet 3: Rizal’s Literary Works

Topics:

• Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo

• Themes of social justice, patriotism, and reform

Activities:

1. Symbolism Analysis: Identify major symbols in Noli Me Tangere and their meanings.

• Simoun’s Lamp – Symbolizes vengeance, revolution, and the explosive consequences of

accumulated resentment.

• Maria Clara – Represents purity, innocence, and the idealized image of the Filipino woman,
as well as the tragic consequences of colonial oppression.

• Sisa, Crispin, and Basilio – Symbolize the suffering of Filipino families under Spanish rule,
with Sisa embodying the plight of a broken mother driven to madness by colonial cruelty.

• The School Project (Ibarra’s Dream) – Reflects hope for reform through education, a
central theme in Rizal’s advocacy.

• The Crocodile – Symbolizes corrupt officials and the greed of those in power.

2. Critical Thinking: How did El Filibusterismo reflect Rizal’s frustrations?

El Filibusterismo reveals a Rizal that has lost all hope in peaceful reform seeing the reforms so
far made suffer under colonial abuse. This novel appears to have a more dark and cynical tone it
is also much more haunted by acceptance of betrayal, greed and the absence of idealism. Rizal’s
discontent with the regime and the lack of cohesion and willingness among the Filipinos to bring
about change through the revolution led by Simoun reveals his views toward both the colonizers
and his compatriots.

3. Quote Interpretation: Explain the meaning of a famous quote from Noli Me Tangere.

“I die without seeing the dawn brighten over my native land. You who will see it, welcome it,
and forget not those who have fallen during the night.”
This quote connects with Rizal’s conviction or faith in the perspective that violence is justified if
it is meant or intended for the welfare of the country. Accepting death, the speaker waits for a
time when their descendants would be free. It emphasizes the idea of one’s altruism and the
importance of the ‘act of remembrance’ during the war of independence.

Worksheet 4: Rizal’s Exile in Dapitan

Topics:

• Rizal’s exile and contributions in Dapitan

• His work in medicine, engineering, and community building

Activities:

1. Map Exercise: Locate Dapitan and discuss why Rizal was exiled there.

Dapitan is a coastal town in the Zamboanga Peninsula of Mindanao, Philippines. It is situated

along Dapitan Bay, facing the Sulu Sea. José Rizal was sent to Dapitan in1882, according to
the Spanish government due to his incarceration in a Noli, Jose Rizal worked as a member of
conspiracies going for works like Noli Me Tangere, El Filibusterismo which were quite
critical in terms of how colonial government was functioning along with the clergy. He was
also a part of activities like La Liga Filipina which were more or less in the favor of peaceful
reformation of the Philippines. These actions prompted colonial rule, resulting in his arrest
and forced to leave Dapitan, where he was under repression for four years.

2. Journal Entry: Write as if you were Rizal, describing his life in exile.

As the sun sets over Dapitan Bay this evening, I ponder the strange destiny that brought me
here. Even in exile, I find much purpose in this place. Out of bamboo and nipa, I have created a
home-a sanctuary for learning and service.I impart education in sciences, arts, and languages to
the pupils of this locality. Their eager countenances bring to mind my younger days when I was
fervently seeking knowledge in Calamba. With what little resources I have been able to gather, I
have also set up a small hospital for the sick. My country still chained to ignorance and
oppression my heart will always be there. Even in exile, I fight with my pen, scalpel, and hope
without end. The struggle for freedom does not stop; it continues to live in every life I affect.

3. Reflection Question: How did Rizal continue to serve his country in exile?

Despite his exile, Rizal was still able to serve the Philippines through education, medicine, and
community development. He established a school wherein he taught local children mathematics,
languages, and geography. Many lives were saved due to his medical expertise; even cataract
surgeries were performed by him. He also constructed a water system for Dapitan and engaged
himself in agricultural projects for the betterment of the community. Through writings and
personal efforts, patriotism was exhibited as well as the possibility of serving the country even in
isolation.
Worksheet 5: Rizal’s Arrest, Trial, and Execution

Topics:

• Rizal’s arrest, trial, and the impact of his death

Activities:

1. Timeline Exercise: Order the key events leading to Rizal’s execution.

• Rizal is exiled to Dapitan (1892).

• The Katipunan is founded (1892).

• The Katipunan’s discovery by Spanish authorities (August 1896).

• Rizal is arrested en route to Cuba (September 1896).

• Rizal is returned to the Philippines (November 1896).

• He is tried for rebellion, sedition, and conspiracy.

• Rizal is executed at Bagumbayan (December 30, 1896).

2. Letter to the Nation: Write a reaction to Rizal’s death from the perspective of a Filipino
in 1896.

“My heart is shattered by the news of Dr. José Rizal’s execution. He was a man of peace, armed only with
his pen and love for our country. His death is a grave injustice, a desperate act by a tyrannical regime
afraid of the truth he revealed. Yet, in their cruelty, they have made him a martyr, igniting the flames of
revolution in every Filipino soul. We will not let his sacrifice be in vain. We will fight for the freedom he
dreamed of — for our land, our people, and our future.”

3. Discussion Questions: How did Rizal’s execution impact the Philippine Revolution?

The execution of Rizal served as a powerful symbol against the Spanish regime. His death
unifies the Filipinos as they made him a martyr who inspired others to join the revolutionary
movement. His literary works, such as Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, exposed the
injustices brought about by the colonial regime that influenced many revolutionary leaders like
Andrés Bonifacio and Emilio Aguinaldo. The nation-wide outcries over his death triggered the
Philippine Revolution, leading to the Philippines fight for independence.

Worksheet 6: Rizal’s Legacy

Topics:

• Rizal’s long-term influence on Filipino independence

• The Rizal Law and relevance today

Activities:

1. Essay Question: How did Rizal inspire later leaders of the Philippine Revolution?

He inspired leading figures of the Philippine Revolution through his writings: Noli Me Tangere
and El Filibusterismo against colonial abuses, thereby provoking Filipino nationalism. Emilio
Aguinaldo honored his legacy by declaring a day of national mourning after a national hero’s
execution during the Philippine Revolution; revolutionaries like Andrés Bonifacio and
Apolinario Mabini followed a similar line of ideas such as freedom, education, and civic
responsibility. The political philosophy of Mabini also reflected the reformist ideals of Rizal.
Rizal’s execution in 1896 made him a national hero and a symbol of struggle for Philippine
independence.

2. Group Discussion: Why is Rizal considered a national hero?

José Rizal is considered the national hero of the Philippines because of his intellectual
contributions, peaceful reform advocacy, and final sacrifice for the country’s freedom. He
exposed the abuses of Spanish colonial authorities through his novels Noli Me Tangere and El
Filibusterismo, inspiring Filipinos to fight for justice and equality. He believed that change
should be achieved through education, dialogue, and national pride rather than violence. Despite
his peaceful methods, Rizal was executed on December 30, 1896, a martyrdom that ignited the
Philippine Revolution. His legacy lives on, shaping Filipino identity and honored each year on
Rizal Day.

3. Reflection Activity: Discuss the importance of studying Rizal today.

It remains crucial to study José Rizal up to today, as his life and works inspire one to love and
defend one’s country with patriotism, integrity, and deep appreciation for education. His
writings, such as Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, expose the injustices in society and
promote national consciousness and the fight for human rights. The dedication of Rizal to
learning and peaceful reform proves that knowledge could power positive change. Understanding
his historical context encourages cultural awareness and reminds individuals of the importance of
civic responsibility and global citizenship. His legacy continues to guide individuals toward
meaningful contributions to society through education, compassion, and advocacy for justice.

Worksheet 7: Rizal’s Relationships and Personal Life

Topics:

• Rizal’s friendships and romantic relationships

• Rizal’s letters to family and friends
Activities:

1. Letter Analysis: Read one of Rizal’s letters to Ferdinand Blumentritt and discuss his
concerns about the Philippines.

In a letter to Ferdinand Blumentritt on January 9, 1886, José Rizal was deeply concerned about
the social, political, and economic conditions of the Philippines under Spanish colonial rule. He
denounced the abuse of power of Spanish officials and friars, which resulted in extensive social
injustice and oppression of the Filipinos. He emphasized the need for education in his time, as he
thought that ignorance kept Filipinos subjugated and enlightenment paved the way for national
progress. He feared that colonial rule was erasing the Filipino cultural identity and insisted that
the country’s heritage, language, and history should be preserved. With these and other
frustrations in mind, Rizal kept hope alive that peaceful reforms through education and dialogue
might just bring meaningful change, a vision later to inspire his revolutionary works Noli Me
Tangere and El Filibusterismo.

2. Reflection Questions: How did Rizal’s personal relationships influence his work?

Personal relationships played a deep role in his work, especially in influencing views on social
reform, nationalism, and human rights. Close bond with his family, his mother in particular,
whom he says encouraged his education, served as the foundation for his intellectual
development. Romantic relationships, in his case with Leonor Rivera, made him carry around
deep scars that influenced themes of unrequited love and sacrifice in his novels. Interaction with
fellow reformists like Marcelo H. del Pilar and Graciano López Jaena reinforced his belief in
education and civil rights as tools for societal change. His strained relationship with the Spanish
colonial government fueled his critiques of oppression and corruption in Noli Me Tangere and El
Filibusterismo, and his martyrdom further solidified his legacy as a symbol of resistance. These
personal relations and experiences were part of what his writings were all about as well as his
role as the figurehead of the fight for Philippine independence.

3. Creative Writing: Write a letter to Rizal, asking him about his goals and ideals.

Dear José Rizal,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I write to you with great admiration
for your dedication to the advancement of knowledge and your unwavering commitment to the
betterment of our country. As someone who has been deeply influenced by your works and
ideas, I am eager to learn more about your personal journey and the principles that guide you.

Your writings, especially Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, have left a profound
impression on me. These do not only reflect your intellectual brilliance but also reflect a deep
concern for the suffering of our people under colonial rule. It is apparent that you have always
been driven by a vision of a better future for the Philippines—one based on freedom, justice, and
equality.

With this in mind, I would be honored if you could share your thoughts on the following:
 1. What inspired you to pursue such a tireless path of learning and reform, despite the challenges
you faced?
2. What are the ideals and goals that you hold most dear, especially regarding the future of our
country and its people?
3. How do you envision the role of education and intellectual development in achieving true
independence and progress?
4. Lastly, what advice would you give to those who, like myself, seek to make a difference in our
society?

Your reflections would be invaluable to me, as I strive to better understand the complexities of
our nation's struggle for freedom and self-determination.

Thank you for your time and for the immense contributions you have made. I remain ever
inspired by your courage and wisdom.

Sincerely,

Charlote

Worksheet 8: Rizal as a Scientist and Educator

Topics:

• Rizal’s scientific work, including in agriculture and medicine

• His teaching philosophy and school in Dapitan

Activities:

1. Research Task: Explore one of Rizal’s scientific or educational projects in Dapitan.

During his exile in Dapitan (1892-1896), José Rizal was involved in various scientific
and educational projects that proved his versatility as a scholar, educator, and scientist.
One of the most notable projects was his work with the Dapitan School, which he
founded to give free education to local children. Rizal, being a multi-talented individual,
also pursued his interest in botany while in Dapitan. He conducted research on flora
within the region, listing species that had not even been documented. He had sent
specimens to various other institutions and kept an accurate count of his findings. One
important contribution he made in his career was his research on plant life in Dapitan; he
collected, catalogued, and researched plants ranging from medicinal to rare species.He
also showed an interest in the study of insects and other natural elements that proved his
keen scientific mind. He also designed and constructed a waterworks system for the town
of Dapitan. This project sought to improve the local water supply, thus demonstrating his
skills in engineering and problem solving. His contributions left an impact on the
community, thus positively affecting public health and town infrastructure. These
scientific and educational endeavors in Dapitan reflected Rizal’s commitment to
 improving the lives of Filipinos, combining intellectual pursuits with practical
contributions to the community.

2. Discussion Questions: What does Rizal’s scientific work reveal about his character?

Scientific work reveals the deep intellectual curiosity, multidisciplinary approach, and dedication
to practical solutions that benefit society, in the case of José Rizal. The different interests in
botany, zoology, and anthropology reflect his passion for knowledge, while efforts toward the
improvement of public health and infrastructure in Dapitan, like designing a waterworks system,
reflect his commitment to service and welfare of others. Rizal’s persistent continuation of his
scientific projects amidst his exile reveals a tough and creative spirit in handling his knowledge
for innovative uses in solving the problems brought about by his local situation. His scientific
endeavors were thus not only motivated by personal need but also by humanitarian reasons and
community responsibility.

3. Experiment Log: If resources permit, conduct a simple science experiment inspired by

Rizal’s practical approach in Dapitan.

Simple Water Filtration Experiment Inspired by Rizal

Objective:

Create a simple water filter using available materials, similar to Rizal’s practical problem-solving.

Materials:

1.Plastic bottle

2.Sand (coarse and fine)

3.Gravel

4.Cloth or coffee filter

5.Dirty water (mud or food coloring)

Procedure:

• Cut the bottom of a plastic bottle.

• Place a cloth or coffee filter at the neck.
• Add coarse gravel, then fine sand, and activated charcoal (optional) in layers.
• Pour dirty water into the filter and collect the filtered water.

Result:

Observe how the water becomes clearer after passing through the layers, demonstrating filtration.
Reflection:

This simple experiment shows how different materials can clean water, much like Rizal’s
resourceful approach in Dapitan.

Worksheet 9: Rizal’s Influence on Philippine Art and Literature

Topics:

• Rizal’s role as a literary figure

• His impact on Filipino artists and writers

Activities:

1. Essay Prompt: How did Rizal influence Philippine literature and art?

He also influenced Philippine literature and art with his works that call upon nationalism and
social reform. His novels, such as Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, exposed abuses
against the people during the time of Spanish
rule. In response to the oppression he encountered, José Rizal triggered a sense of pride amon
g the Filipino people through these pieces of writing. Rizal was an
artist too, making sculptures and paintings that reflected his nationalist ideals. His life and
works became symbols of Filipino pride, influencing later artists to use their craft for
political expression and the pursuit of independence. His legacy shaped both Philippine
literature and visual arts, fostering national consciousness.

2. Creative Project: Create an artwork, poem, or short story inspired by Noli Me Tangere
or El Filibusterismo.

Whispers of Freedom

In the depths of silent night,

A flame ignites—a flickering light.

Hope suppressed by chains and fear,

Yet whispers of freedom still draw near.

Rivers murmur secrets untold,

Mountains guard dreams brave and bold.

Hearts may break, but not the will—

 Justice lives; it lingers still.

Through darkened paths of greed and sin,

The fight for truth must still begin.

Though martyrs fall, their voices rise,

Echoing loud through time and skies.

Oh, beloved land of sun and seas,

Awake! Break free from tyranny’s breeze.

For though we suffer, though we cry,

Liberty’s dawn will pierce the sky.

3. Reflection Question: How would you describe Rizal’s impact on Filipino culture?

José Rizal’s impact on Filipino culture is profound and far-reaching. As the national hero of the
Philippines, he inspired a sense of national identity and pride through his writings, particularly
his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. These works exposed social injustices under
Spanish colonial rule and sparked the Filipino nationalist movement.

His advocacy for peaceful reform, education, and intellectual freedom set the foundation for
modern Filipino values. Rizal’s life and martyrdom are now at the center of the country’s history
and are a symbol of the fight for justice, equality, and independence. His legacy continues in
Filipino literature, art, politics, and education. Institutions, monuments, and annual
commemorations continue to honor his memory.

Worksheet 10: Rizal’s Role in the Propaganda Movement

Topics:

• Rizal and the Propaganda Movement

• Collaboration with Graciano López Jaena and Marcelo H. del Pilar

Activities:
 1. Matching Activity: Match Propaganda Movement leaders with their contributions.

1. José Rizal

• Wrote Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, novels that exposed societal issues under
Spanish rule.

• Advocated for peaceful reforms through education and equal rights.

2.Marcelo H. del Pilar

• Founded Diariong Tagalog, a newspaper that promoted reformist ideas.

• Edited La Solidaridad, the primary publication of the movement.

3.Graciano López Jaena

• Founded La Solidaridad, serving as its first editor.

• Delivered powerful speeches and wrote articles advocating for Filipino rights.

4. Mariano Ponce

• Managed La Solidaridad after López Jaena.

• Wrote historical and political articles under various pen names, promoting Filipino culture and
nationalism.

5. Antonio Luna

• Contributed to La Solidaridad with articles on military and national defense reforms.

• Later became a key military leader in the Philippine Revolution.

6. Ferdinand Blumentritt (Honorary)

• Though not Filipino, he supported the movement through academic works defending Filipino
rights.

2.Reading and Analysis: Read an excerpt from La Solidaridad and discuss its key demands.

La Solidaridad was a newspaper published by Filipino reformists in Spain from 1889 to 1895
and became a suitable platform for political, social, and economic reforms in the Philippines
under Spanish colonial rule. Its first editorial declared its mission to defend progress and
propagate democratic ideals, as written by Graciano López Jaena. The reformists’ principal
demands were the inclusion of Filipino representation in the Spanish Cortes, where they could
 express themselves and participate in the process of legislation. They demanded the
secularization of the clergy by replacing the Spanish friars with Filipino priests and curbing the
power of friars in society. Lastly, they demanded civil liberties like freedom of speech and
freedom of the press, to allow for free expression in matters of colonial governance. The group
advocated equality under the law, demanded to be free from discriminatory policies of Filipinos,
promoted education, and reforms; such advocacy included secular schools, high schools, and
school services offered without religious influences. In this case, though the action by La
Solidaridad aimed at peaceful revolution towards a reform within the Spanish colony’s system, it
also instilled future revolutionary movements that worked to achieve Philippine independence.

3.Compare and Contrast: Create a Venn diagram comparing the goals of the Propaganda
Movement with those of the Revolution.

Propaganda Philippine Revolution

• Recognition • Armed struggle for
Movement
of Filipino independence
• Peaceful reform through
rights and • Complete separation from
writings and advocacy
dignity Spain
• Equal rights for Filipinos and
• Social and • Establishment of a sovereign
Spaniards
political Filipino nation
• Representation in the
equality • End of Spanish colonization
Spanish Cortes
• Freedom and oppression
• Secularization of parishes
from • Creation of a revolutionary
• Freedom of speech, press,
oppression government
and education
and abuses
• Improved
living
conditions for
Filipinos
4.Reflection Essay: Write about Rizal’s impact on Filipino nationalism.

Filipino nationalism was shaped by José Rizal in the late 1800s. His novels, Noli Me Tangere and El
Filibusterismo, were instrumental in exposing the social injustices and abuses committed by Spanish
colonial authorities and the clergy. Rizal’s works served as a reminder to Filipinos that they are all
struggling together and sharing the responsibility of living without oppression.

Filipinos were enamored with Rizal’s advocacy for peaceful reform, education, and civic rights. His
involvement led to the establishment of La Liga Filipina, a civic association that strives for social harmony
and cohesion among Filipinos. Although he was arrested and exiled by the Spanish authorities shortly
after its formation, his principles continued to have an impact on nationalist movements.

On December 30, 1896, he was executed and became a martyr, sparking revolutionary enthusiasm that
contributed to the Philippine Revolution against Spain. “. By virtue of his intellectual legacy, his fight for
justice through reason and peace, as well as his sacrifice, Rizal became the most important symbol
Filipino nationalism. His legacy lives on in the Philippines, as he is revered as the national hero of the
country and continues to inspire freedom, dignity among Filipinos. “.