Teaching MLK in Music Class: Civil Rights Movement Songs

Hey fellow educators! Miss Fred here, and today I want to chat with you about something close to all of our hearts – teaching the powerful tunes of the Civil Rights Movement and the enduring legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Why should we be diving into songs like "We Shall Overcome," "A Change Is Gonna Come," and "Blowin' in the Wind" with our students? Well, let's unpack the notes and see why it's a game-changer for our classrooms.

Connecting with History through Melody: As teachers, we know the impact of making history relatable. These iconic songs aren't just a walk down memory lane; they're a journey through the struggles, victories, and dreams that shaped our world. By bringing these tunes into the classroom, we're giving our students a chance to connect with history on a whole new level.

"We Shall Overcome": This anthem isn't just about overcoming; it's about resilience and solidarity. When we share its roots with our students, we open up conversations about unity, persistence, and the belief that positive change is within our grasp. It's a powerful narrative that resonates with kids of all ages.

"A Change Is Gonna Come": Sam Cooke's soulful masterpiece is a goldmine for discussions on the struggle for civil rights. It's a window into a time when change was not just hoped for but anticipated. Exploring this song with our students allows them to understand the challenges faced by those who came before them and appreciate the progress made since.

"Blowin' in the Wind": Bob Dylan's questions about freedom and justice are timeless. This song serves as a conversation starter about the universality of social issues and the role we all play in creating a more just world. It's a call to action that can resonate deeply with our students.

Why Teach Civil Rights Music?

1. Relevance to Today's Issues: These songs open up discussions about the ongoing struggle for justice, making history relevant to current events.

2. Building Empathy: By exploring the emotions embedded in these tunes, we're fostering empathy in our students, helping them understand the human experience behind historical events.

3. Encouraging Critical Thinking: The lyrics and melodies of these songs provide an excellent platform for critical thinking. Students can analyze, interpret, and reflect on the messages conveyed.

Your Class Resource: If you think this is all great but you just don't have time to come up with something to do yourself, I've got your back. Head over to my Teachers Pay Teachers store and check out the "MLK: Music of the Civil Rights Movement" Google Slides assignment. It's a no-prep, digital resource that brings the beats of history into your classroom. Engage your students in thought-provoking discussions, and let the music be the catalyst for understanding our shared history.

Let's inspire change, one note at a time. Grab the resource, and let's make history resonate in our music classrooms!