Folk

Though often used in shows of patriotism, Bruce Springsteen's 1985 song "Born in the U.S.A." is critical of America's role in the Vietnam war and its treatment of American veterans. High schoolers analyze the song's lyrics in an activity...

Imagine being commissioned to compose a work for a huge celebration that should be exciting and patriotic. A work that would commemorate a dramatic battle victory. What instruments would you use? What melodies to tell the tale and echo...

Learn about each of the major players that contributed to each genre of modern/contemporary music. This slideshow covers the last 100 years in American music, from Gershwin to Michael Jackson, Folk to Reggae. Tip: It would be great to...

Mexican folk songs offer an authentic look at WWII immigrant workers. This study of the U.S. Bracero Program sets historians up with context information so they can write their own corrido. The class reviews themes and formulas of...

"And it's one, two, three...what are we fighting for?" Use music to assess the climate of protest during the Vietnam War, listening to and analyzing Country Joe MacDonald's "I-Feel-Like-I'm-Fixin'-To-Die Rag" (lyrics included)....

Students examine the music of Woody Guthrie and how the political and economic climate influenced his work. They read and discuss online articles, define key vocabulary words, take a Political Orientation Survey, and write a position...

Learners describe some of the distinguishing characteristics of rock, folk, blues, and country music. They identify two main musical roots of today's American popular music.

Students explain the potential consequences of protest. They discuss selected historical conflicts and examine the role of the individual in protest.