Learning about popular culture from the past / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, Brodi will have a deeper understanding of popular culture from the past, including key trends, influential figures, and significant events that shaped society. Brodi will also be able to connect these cultural elements to today's world and articulate their impact on modern society.

Materials and Prep

  • Notebook and pen for taking notes
  • Internet access for research (if available)
  • Access to a video streaming service (if available) to watch clips from classic movies or shows
  • Art supplies (colored pencils, markers, paper) for creative activities
  • Preparation: Familiarize yourself with key decades in popular culture (e.g., the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s) and identify a few significant events or figures to discuss.

Activities

  • Decade Research Project: Brodi will choose a specific decade (e.g., 1960s, 1970s, etc.) and research its popular culture trends, including music, fashion, movies, and significant events. Brodi can create a presentation or a poster to showcase the findings.

  • Movie/TV Show Analysis: Brodi will select a classic movie or TV show from the chosen decade and watch a few key scenes. Afterward, Brodi will analyze how the show/movie reflects the culture of that time and write a short review.

  • Creative Expression: Brodi will create a piece of art (drawing, collage, etc.) that represents a cultural trend or event from the past. This can be inspired by the research done in the previous activities.

Talking Points

  • "Popular culture is like a mirror that reflects what society values and cares about at a particular time."
  • "Each decade has its own unique trends in music, fashion, and entertainment that tell us a lot about the people living in that era."
  • "Think about how the events of a decade, like wars or social movements, influenced what people were watching or listening to."
  • "Icons like Elvis Presley or Madonna didn't just entertain; they shaped cultural norms and what was considered cool."
  • "How did technological advancements, like the rise of television or the internet, change the way we consume culture?"
  • "Fashion trends often reflect the attitudes and values of the time, like the counterculture of the 1960s."
  • "What role did youth culture play in shaping popular culture during the decades? Think about the rise of rock 'n' roll or hip-hop."
  • "Consider how popular culture can sometimes challenge societal norms and push for change."
  • "How do you see elements of past popular culture influencing today's trends?"
  • "Discuss how nostalgia plays a role in how we view past pop culture today."
  • "What are some examples of how movies or music from the past are still relevant today?"
  • "How do you think social media has changed the way popular culture is created and shared?"
  • "Can you think of any modern artists or celebrities who have been influenced by past pop culture?"
  • "What lessons can we learn from studying past popular culture?"
  • "How can understanding our cultural history help us navigate the present and future?"