Using Hip Hop in the Classroom

Engaging Students with Hip Hop Dance to Decode Texts using Context Clues

As teachers, we’re constantly on the lookout for engaging content that meets curriculum expectations. We want to present our students with rich learning opportunities that they can enjoy.

This resource specifically taps into a topic that is interesting to middle school students. Using this resource, students practice finding information about Hip-Hop dance using material that is fun and interesting to them. As students delve into the song lyrics, they will uncover clues and gain a deeper understanding of the topic while increasing their vocabulary knowledge.

If you would like to gain access to this amazing resource within the Rap Opera for Kids Freebie Library, keep reading to find out more.

Using video and music to engage learners

It’s essential as educators that we allow for multiple entry points for our students to access the material we give them. This resource refers to the “History of Hip-Hop Dance” rap song video on YouTube. Specifically created for this resource, the video is visually interesting for students.

For some of our students, they may rely on the YouTube video to understand the information. The video has been created to be appealing to a middle school audience.

For other students, they may find it helpful to have the lyrics in front of them while listening to the audio of the video. The lyrics are set out in the packet plus students can also use the closed captions within the YouTube video.

Prompting students to look for context clues

In response to the written lyrics and YouTube video, students will answer a series of context clues questions. It’s important to note that these questions prompt students to look for specific clues within the text. For example, when a quote is given, students are asked to look at the words in bold for the clues they need.

Students will answer questions based on multiple-choice options. This resource could be completed by students independently or in pairs or small groups.

Here’s what you can expect from this resource:

• Unique and engaging YouTube video specifically created for this lesson
• Multiple choice style questions that prompt students to look for context clues
• Questions designed to increase students’ vocabulary
• Intriguing lyrics and engaging music that teach students about the history of Hip-Hop Dance and breakdancing
• Material that allows for multiple entry points for students of varying academic levels
• Answer key included to make taking up and marking work straightforward for teachers and students
• Printable context clues worksheets with lyrics and question pages

Who is this resource for?

Students that love learning about dance and aspects of popular culture such as breaking and Hip Hop will enjoy completing this activity.
Plus, the materials have been designed in a way that makes it easy for teachers to present to their students.

Want to get access to this resource and more?

Rap Opera for Kids resources tap into engaging themes for teens and kids. Through the use of video and music, students engage in learning that is rich, meaningful, and appealing.

If you would like access to this resource plus many others, click here for our freebie library!

Want to see more of what Rap Opera for Kids offers? Check out more our of resources here at TPT here!