musicals / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to understand the historical context of popular musicals and their impact on society.

Materials and Prep

  • Access to a computer or tablet with internet connection
  • Pen and paper for note-taking
  • Optional: Access to streaming platforms or DVDs to watch musicals

Activities

  1. Research a historical event or time period that has been portrayed in a musical. Write a brief summary of the event and its significance. For example, you can choose to explore the American Revolution and the musical "Hamilton".

  2. Watch a musical that is set in a specific historical period. Take notes on how the musical represents the time period, including the costumes, set design, and the themes explored in the storyline.

  3. Create a timeline of significant musicals throughout history. Include the year of release, the composers, and the historical context in which they were created. You can focus on a specific genre of musicals or cover a broader range.

  4. Choose a musical and research the social and cultural impact it had at the time of its release. Write a short essay discussing how the musical challenged societal norms, addressed important issues, or influenced popular culture.

  5. Present your findings to a family member or friend. Use visual aids, such as images or video clips, to support your presentation.

Ninth Grade Talking Points

  • "Musicals can be a powerful medium to convey historical events and themes, as they combine music, dance, and storytelling."

  • "Understanding the historical context of a musical can enhance our appreciation for the creative choices made by the composers, lyricists, and directors."

  • "By analyzing the costumes, set design, and themes of a musical, we can gain insights into the time period it represents and the social issues it addresses."

  • "Exploring the social and cultural impact of musicals allows us to see how art can shape and reflect society."

  • "Presenting our research and findings to others helps us develop communication and presentation skills, while also sharing knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of the subject."