Introduction to Reading and Writing for Social Action

1. Task:
1. Brainstorm in small groups – discuss and write down what you think the following words mean and give examples (5 min):

                                               i.     Society and social issues

                                             ii.     Justice

                                            iii.     Fairness

2. Share (5 min)

3. Activity: Read and respond to “No Struggle, No Progress” and “Backlash Blues”

                                               i.     Now we are going to look at a song and a poem that communicate different messages about society.

                                             ii.     Group work (15-20min): Silently read the poem on your desk. Read with your pen. Star excerpts that you like and find interesting; mark lines you don’t understand so well with question marks; in the margins, write what you think and feel, observations about writer’s craft and purpose, and connections. Initial your notes.

                                            iii.     In your notebook, write down 1 quote and 1 question; elaborate on them.

                                            iv.     Do the same for the second

                                             v.     Write a brief reflection: how do the songs compare and contrast? How are they similar and different? 

                                            vi.     Class share (20 min): As I read aloud No Struggle, when we come across a line that you starred, read it aloud with me.

                                          vii.     Share lines you like and respond to them. What does it make you think, feel, or know? What do you think is the overall message?

                                         viii.     Listen to "Backlash Blues" and add notes. http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xu8771_nina-simone-live-at-montreux-1976-backlash-blues_music

                                            ix.     Share lines you like and respond to them. What does it make you think, feel, or know? What do you think is the overall message?

                                             x.     Conclusion:

1.     How do these songs relate to justice and fairness?

2.     Evaluate the songs. What’s missing or unclear or biased about them? What do they make you want to know more about?

                                            xi.     Homework: Write a song or poem about issues or problems in your own community. Due on _____________________. Write on loose leaf or type.