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11-12
Singin’ the Blues
Project type: Assignment
Related topic:
Devastating Dry Spells: Drought on the Prairies
Devastating Dry Spells: Drought on the Prairies
Subjects
Social Studies
Summary
Students write the music and lyrics for a blues song based on emotions instilled by experiencing drought.
Duration
2 – 3 lessons
Purpose
To communicate emotion through song
Before Exploring
Acquire and play for students a few selections of blues songs. Ask them to identify some of the characteristics of the blues. List their responses for reference.
Outline the Opportunity
Direct students to clips 1, 3, 6, 7, and the additional clip “Urban impact” on Devastating Dry Spells: Drought on the Prairies on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site where they can get a sense of the emotions that a drought can instill. Then have students work individually or in pairs to write and compose a blues song based on the ideas and feelings expressed in the clips.
Revisit and Reflect
Students can either tape their song and play it for the class, or perform it live. Have the class use the lists of Blues songs characteristics to determine the “best” Blues songs in the class.
Extension
Compile students’ songs onto a CD or DVD for distribution within the class. Students can create cover art for their compilation.
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