Tracking the Monster: Ashley Judd and Indie.Arie Confront AIDS in Africa - Lesson 1

Upper graders take a critical look at art criticism, music, and politics. They watch one segment of "True Spin," produced by VH1 music television and then discuss myths that relate to art and music. Several modern songs are analyzed...

The phrase, "You sold out" has been thrown around among musicians that have lent their talents to the corporate world. Here, the class engages in an interesting discussion on how musicians make a living and the influence of commercialism...

Students examine messages in popular music, and observe the musical elements of the Rhythm and Blues and Rap genres.

Students are introduced to the field of music therapy. They listen to new music and gain a better understanding of the AIDS worldwide epidemic. Small groups develop a music therapy program.

Young scholars investigate the relationship between music and culture, and how music conveys thoughts and emotions. They write their own song.

Young scholars see how music and theatre deals with contemporary problems and issues. The sight-read new music and examine the musical, 'RENT.'

Students use Internet research to complete and compare maps and view a video to explore the AIDS/HIV crisis in parts of Africa. They discuss their findings.

Students explore and discuss the issues of personal freedoms and safety as they apply to HIV/AIDS. They consider whether doctors, co-workers, teammates, etc. have the right to know someone else's disease status.

How are Pandyas different than Chispas? Explore cultural norms and societal behaviors with an engaging role-play activity. Split into groups of two hypothetical cultural groups, the formal Pandyas and the sociable Chispas, and another...

Through the analysis of his own guitar solo, the writer of this column presents good ideas and advice on how to become a better soloist. Included are sheet music samples to aid the viewer in understanding the concepts being addressed.