Inspire creativity. History Raps & History Rocks requires that students write original songs based on the content of the American History curriculum. For each unit students write songs either individually, with a partner, or in teams. A winner is chosen and the song lyrics are sent to the South Studio. A core group of musicians compose original music in the South Studio to suit the mood and history of the lyrics. The songs are then digitally recorded, mixed, and burned on a computer recording system.
Improve literacy. For each writing assignment, students work with a blank song template. A typical song might consist of several verses and a chorus. In either rap, rock, or whatever style, students write original lyrics that are both reflective and based on course content. In February, students begin preparation for the big exam by writing original historical summaries for each time period studied. Again, one winner is chosen for each unit and published in the final production.
Increase test scores. In order to maintain high performance scores on Social Studies exams, students need to remember specific facts. History Raps & History Rocks works in the same way that a young child learns the alphabet. By committing the material to song, it simply makes the content easier to remember. Once completed, the CD and publication can be a fun and helpful review tool to prepare students for official examinations at the end of the year.
Teach citizenship. The Preamble of the United States Constitution begins with "We the People, in order to form a more perfect Union..." The exceptional nature of American democracy is that the People exercise their feelings, thoughts, and ideas in such a manner that government representatives should work to serve the majority of public interest and opinion. By studying and writing about the past, this assignment has attempted to teach students the importance of an active and responsible citizenry.
A Music History of the American People is the result of a collaborative effort. The performance of all the students who participated as musicians, artists, composers, songwriters, research historians, and computer designers was remarkable and inspiring.
On behalf of the South Studio, we hope you enjoy the recording.
| Mr. Peter Mastrota Faculty Advisor, South Studio Productions |