My fourth grader watched Hamilton

Activity: "My fourth grader watched Hamilton"

History

• The child learned about the American Revolutionary War and the founding of the United States.
• They gained knowledge about key historical figures such as Alexander Hamilton, George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson.
• The child learned about the different viewpoints and conflicts between the Federalists and Anti-Federalists.
• They gained an understanding of the historical context and the impact of the musical on modern interpretations of history.

Music

• The child learned about different musical genres and styles used in Hamilton, including hip-hop, rap, and traditional show tunes.
• They gained an appreciation for the role of music in storytelling and conveying emotions.
• The child learned about the elements of songwriting, such as lyrics, melody, rhythm, and harmony.
• They gained an understanding of the creative process behind composing and performing music for a theatrical production.

Watching Hamilton can inspire further development in both History and Music. Encourage the child to explore more about the American Revolutionary War and other key figures from that era. They can read books, watch documentaries, or even visit historical sites to deepen their understanding. In terms of music, they can try writing their own songs or learning to play an instrument. Encourage them to experiment with different musical styles and genres, just like Lin-Manuel Miranda did in Hamilton. This can help them develop their creativity and musical skills.

Book Recommendations

• Alexander Hamilton: The Outsider by Jean Fritz: This book provides an engaging biography of Alexander Hamilton, introducing young readers to his life and contributions to American history.
• If You Were There When They Signed the Constitution by Elizabeth Levy: This book offers a kid-friendly exploration of the Constitutional Convention and the signing of the U.S. Constitution, providing context for the events portrayed in Hamilton.
• by Edward Barratt: This book explores the history and cultural significance of hip-hop and rap music, helping children understand the musical elements used in Hamilton.