Music is a World Within Itself

by Benton Greene

level: Intermediate

80 minutes

Music, History, Gratitude

Begin lesson

Lesson Tool Kit

Materials Needed

Stevie Wonder resource guide

“Sir Duke” song lyrics

“Sir Duke” video

Cross the Line warm up activity

Paper

Pen

Prompts from the lesson

Prework

Classes should be familiar with classroom discussion formats and creative writing.

Objectives

Give students historical context to the intersection of music and politics.

Provide an opportunity for students to research a subject of their choosing.

Challenge students to create a POV and support it with their thoughts and select research.

Provide students an opportunity to practice gratitude using their creativity.

Essential Questions

What is the possible function or effect of personal gratitude on a society, institution or group?

Who are you grateful for in your life? Why?

How can we encourage our students’ creativity?

Socio-Emotional Learning

This lesson gives a low stake opportunity for educators and/or caretakers to connect with students around music. Allow yourself to be open to following the conversation where it may go and not controlling student responses.

Give ample time for students to reflect so they do not feel rushed.

This lesson can be used by educators or parents/caretakers to challenge young people to express gratitude for people in their lives and to explore how music of today is built on music of the past.