Exploring the Roots of Modern Dance in America

Using the nonfiction book African Americans in the Thirteen Colonies, learners read segments about the origin and perpetuation of slavery in the colonies. Reading comprehension is assessed as the class discusses the text, and explores...

It's wonderful to see a lesson that incorporates art, movement, and writing. These three forms of creative expression are explored as learners dance to music from the Gullah people of West Africa. They analyze several paintings, listen...

Each of the three dance lessons included here will get your class moving. The first lesson allows learners to explore how music and movement differ in meaning depending on cultural context. Lesson two gives them an opportunity to create...

Africa was home to many great ancient civilizations, this presentation covers aspect of 4 of them. Middle schoolers explore aspects of civilizations from Nubia, Ghana, Mali, and Songhay. Topics covered are achievements, culture, great...

Brazilian music, culture, and religion have been heavily influenced by African's who were brought to South America during the time of slave trading. This presentation covers the blending of two cultures which resulted in Afro-Brazilian...

There is a lot to this Native American exploration plan, delve into it! A WebQuest focuses research with 3 expeditions (printable if resources dictate). Scholars keep track of findings on a KWL chart (consider a more note-taking specific...

Dance is an expressive and highly physical art form that incorporates culture, music, and body mechanics. Learners warm up their bodies, practice dance techniques and terminology, then explore African movement and rhythm. Tip: Have the...

Explore the influence of African-style masks on Western art. Learners create individual masks using construction paper. They discuss and explore the techniques used to create these types of masks. The resource includes links to...

Learners are introduced to African-American music history through this lesson plan. 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...

Students explore ancient tradition and craft of mask making, examine role or function of masks in African culture, create instruments, and participate in class projects.