History and culture of rap music from 1940s / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will have a deeper understanding of the history and cultural significance of rap music, tracing its roots from the 1940s to the present. They will learn about key figures, important events, and how rap music reflects societal changes.

Materials and Prep

  • Notebook and pen for note-taking
  • Access to a device for listening to music (optional)
  • Printouts of key rap lyrics from the 1940s to present (can be created before the lesson)
  • Timeline paper for creating a historical timeline
  • Markers or colored pencils for the timeline

Before the lesson, familiarize yourself with the evolution of rap music, including major artists and movements. Prepare printouts of some influential rap lyrics and create a simple timeline template for the student to fill in.

Activities

  • Listening Session:

    Start the lesson with a listening session where the student can hear snippets of rap music from different decades, beginning from the 1940s. Discuss the differences in style, lyrics, and themes.

  • Timeline Creation:

    Have the student create a timeline of significant events in the history of rap music. They can include the release of important albums, the rise of influential artists, and key cultural moments.

  • Lyric Analysis:

    Choose a few key rap lyrics from different eras and analyze them together. Discuss the themes, messages, and cultural context of each piece.

  • Rap Creation:

    Encourage the student to write their own rap lyrics inspired by the history they’ve learned. They can present their rap to you, incorporating themes from the eras studied.

Talking Points

  • "Rap music has roots that go back to the 1940s, but it really started to take shape in the 1970s. Can you think of what might have inspired it back then?"
  • "Many people see rap as a way to tell stories about life in different communities. What stories do you think are important to tell through music?"
  • "Artists like DJ Kool Herc and Grandmaster Flash were pioneers in the rap scene. Why do you think their contributions were so significant?"
  • "The lyrics in rap often reflect social issues, like inequality and injustice. Can you find an example of a rap song that talks about something important?"
  • "Rap music has evolved over the decades. How do you think the style and messages have changed from the 1980s to today?"
  • "Collaborations between rap artists and other musicians have created new sounds. Who are some artists you think work well together?"
  • "The culture of rap includes dance, fashion, and art. How do you think these elements influence each other?"
  • "Many rappers use their platform to advocate for change. Can you think of a rapper who has made a difference in society?"
  • "Freestyling is an important part of rap culture. What do you think about improvising lyrics on the spot?"
  • "Rap battles are a way for artists to showcase their skills. What do you think makes a good rap battle?"
  • "How do you feel about the representation of women in rap music? Do you think it's changing?"
  • "Finally, what do you think the future holds for rap music? How might it continue to evolve?"