Music History Lesson Plans

Students are introduced to African-American music history through this lesson. They begin their study by taking a look at the slave work song and work their way through to modern rap and hip-hop. Students also take a closer look at significant musical figures of African American music through the ages.

Students research the geographical histories of various musical genres and make maps that note important places in music history. They Write geographical biographies about one of their favorite musical artists.

Students listen and analyze various samples of genres of music. After reading an article, they discuss the fate of New Orlean's Jazz after Hurricane Katrina. Using the internet, they investigate the life cycles of musical genres with roots in the United States. They share their information with the class in an oral presentation.

Learners study the folk music and dance of the island of Mauritius. In this music and dance lesson, learners study the style of music and dance that is called sega. They learn about how the traditional music comes from the islands off the coast of Africa.

Students examine protest music and songs from the Civil Rights movement. In this music of the Civil Rights era lesson, students listen to selected music before working in groups to determine who the music was directed at, what social ills the lyrics were addressing, and what affect the music had. They write an essay using music and a primary source document.

In this lesson students will explore ragtime music and gain an understanding of its development in relation to jazz. They will also investigate the historical events during the time the genre evolved.

In this lesson students will learn about finding the blues in a variety of musical styles. They will investigate instances of the blues form heard in mainstream pop music, along with exploring the musical styles of two new artists who are helping to keep

Students discuss significant figures in music history and read an article about the Smithsonian's Hip-Hop exhibit. In groups, they develop and curate an exhibition of hip-hop music and history using artifacts that represent relevant people and events.

5th graders experience performing arts by participating in a music performance. In this music history lesson, 5th graders practice playing notes on an instrument in class and discuss the challenges associated with making music. 5th graders research the life of Mozart and complete a quiz on the man.

In this lesson learners explore music history. In this music history supplemental lesson, learners listen to information presented about important facts in music history. In this lesson learners complete a review quiz at the end of each month based on the daily music history facts presented.