D I T M A S I S 6 2 - C L A S S E S 8 5 0 A N D 8 6 0

Barry KevorKian, PrinciPal

Michael Downes

social stuDies eDucator/innovator

History Plays an Endless Record/

The Truth Behind the Music -

Using Songs as Vehicle for Studying

American History

History Plays an Endless Record/

The Truth Behind the Music -

Using Songs as Vehicle for Studying

American History

DitMas is 62classes 850 anD 860

Barry KevorKian, PrinciPal

Production/Press Preparation Team

Michael Downes, Social Studies Educator/ Innovator of American History Through Song MethodDr. Rose Cherie Reissman, Literacy ConsultantFUTUREKIDS, Book DesignerJoey Leone, Manuscript PreparationIsmael Batista-Photography/Manuscript Preparation

Title for 860- History Plays An Endless Record suggested by Muhammad UsmanTitle for 850- The Truth Behind The Music suggested by Tamneya Hauter

Cover Art for History Plays an Endless Record created by Shahrooz Khan 860. He states that this art was initially inspired by cartoons and then modified by him.

Cover Art for the Truth Behind the Music created by Kionna Romans 850 and Mohammad Usman 860.

Student Editorial/Arts Leadership TeamShahbaz Ali 850 Dezmin Cagara 850 Arts CoordinatorJohn Cheung 850Tamneya Hauter 850Shahrooz Amin Khan 860-Arts CoordinatorSaima Maqsood 850 Mahnoor Mian 850Kionna Romans 850Jasmin Rivera 860Iliana Rodriguez 860 Ubama Shabbat 850 Isama Shabbir 850Sarah Shahid 850 Jillian Solomon 850Mohammad Usman 860Marysol Velez 860Zoheeb Zafar 850

Abdulkamal AjeleroChance AndreBridgette BabbChristopher BudhramTabitha FrançoisJames GittingsMelissa IsaacShahrooz KhanEdwin Martinez Yohance ModesteBrenda MoralesSheefan NauthJasmin Rivera

Maria RoblesIliana RodriguezAmando SanchezShenelle SmithIkera TariqMuhammad UsmanZully VazquezMarysol VelezTamyra WilliamsTrinell YoungAisha ZafarZoheeb ZafarIqra Zahid

Shabaz AliOmana AvalosZoobia BhattiDezmin CagaraJohn CheungGerelis FelizTamneya HauterGifari HoqueShahzodjon IsmatovNakia JohnsonAngelique LucienSaima MaqsoodMary Mfum

Mahnoor MianKeziah PaulSharmila PorterFany RaymundoAhmad RazaMarin RojasKionna RomansIsama ShabbirSarah ShahidJillian SolomonGiovanni ValleJulian Yeboah

ContributorsHistory Plays An Endless Record

860

ContributorsThe Truth Behind The Music

850

Table of Contents

Foreword David Keller Trevaskis - Founder of LEAP – former President of the Pennsylvania Social Studies Council, Pennsylvania Bar Association Student Foreword Tabitha Francois- Teaching and Singing

Introduction Downes Innovation in Education Approach - American History and Pop Culture through Multiple Intelligences, Multimedia and Acting/Reacting to history Student Comments

Chapter 1 Oh say can you see. . .? Star Spangled Banner-In Context

Chapter 2 “You’re a grand old flag, you’re a high flying flag”

Chapter 3 “Brother, can you spare a dime”?

Chapter 4 “Have you seen my good friend, John”? Sympathy for the Devil

Chapter 5 “What if you knew her and found her dead on the ground”?

Chapter 6 “We didn’t start the fire . . . “

Chapter 7 We Write the Songs- It’s Our Turn

Resources

Parody Student Template Sheet

Contributor Bios/Photos

It Takes a School Community- Photos of the staff behind these students

Reflections on Downes Multimedia American Song Approach-Student Responses to PublishingLiteracy Coach’s Take on this Approach- Dr. Rose Cherie ReissmanLast word Iqra Zahid-StudentJames Gittings- Student

Alignment to Common Core- Literacy in History and Social Studies

Foreword

Dear Students,

As someone who leads and participates in multiple mock trials, student court, student law and other citizenship events, I am well aware of the power of songs to express American values, moods, hopes, challenges and dreams.

I salute Mr. Downes for his integration of multimedia and pop culture into the teaching of American History curriculum. In particular, I enjoyed reading parodies , updates, responses and commentaries on the songs. As a law related Education leader in Pennsylvania and across the United States, I applaud the innovative ways you as students responded and reacted to these songs.

It is obvious to me that whether you felt the songs themselves were effective in their own time or relevant to today’s events and values, the conversation and issues you raised as citizens are vital to your continuing participation in the American democratic process.

I look forward to reading the reactions to this work and the next book exploring other musical and video chapters in the evolving American political landscape.

You are “fanning the fire” of crucial American history study.

Congrats.

David Keller Trevaskis

Student Foreword

Tabitha FrançoisTeaching and Singing

Make learning funPoems and lyricsHelp keep the brain aliveIn a class, we all try to survive-Getting a little boring,Getting a little tired.Bring on songLike“We didn’t start the fire,”The beat getting stuck in my head No longer am I going to bed-Having a little fun.But also getting my educationThat to success will be my Foundation

Introduction

“We learned more from a three minute record, than we ever learned in school.”Bruce Springsteen –“No Surrender”

Michael Downes- Social Studies Educator and Innovator in Education-

As I reflect on this book which is a product of my infusing the teaching of American songs, reacting to them, viewing accompanying video/visual documents and student creations as a result of that mix; the Bruce Springsteen quote from his song “No Surrender” immediately jumps out.

From the day I started teaching, I felt as a music lover myself that including music as an auditory and kinesthetic (plus intrapersonal and interpersonal) response to history amplified my capacity to engage my students in evolving American History. With my interest in technology and my teaming with Mr. Carideo and Mr. Liotta-who bring multimedia and videography/rap techniques to the drawing board, I have spearheaded with these exemplary team collaborators the Acting and Reacting to History Approach.

Other inspiring influences that helped me develop this approach, included the Multiple Intelligences Theory of Howard Gardner. I read his various works as a consequence of my taking a UFT course in Multiple Intelligences Learning. Immediately I connected with this theory and these methodologies as ideal for me to tap multimedia-specifically song inspired-to engage a broad spectrum of learners.

On a personal note, as a boy of just 8 at the time of the Kent State shooting, it was the song Ohio which I heard on the radio plus my family perspectives on the shootings and the graphic footage of the fallen, which made an emotional impact on me. That impact still remains today.

To close with a professional note from my Ditmas teacher educator experiences, about 11 years ago. I brought in a keyboard hoping to teach myself how to play. Sheri Howard, a student was able to play it immediately. Together we created songs about history and science.

This partnership anticipated the leadership demonstrated in this collection by my classes-850 and 860. May you all write your own scores and lyrics to act and to react to history.

I hope other educators are inspired by this collection to tap the vast multimedia American songbook archives so the Glee Club phenomenon can be adapted to engage 21st century American students.

Michael DownesInnovation in Education

Chapter 1 Oh, say can you see. . . ?

Historical Context: Lyrics authored by Francis Scott Key reference an actual flag still aloft he saw. Time period War of 1812. The lyrics were published in 1814. The Star Spangled Banner was officially made the national anthem by Congress in 1931.

Francis Scott Key was a gifted amateur poet. Inspired by the sight of the American flag flying over Fort McHenry the morning after the bombardment, he scribbled the initial verse of his song on the back of a letter. Back in Baltimore, he completed the four verses and copied them onto a sheet of paper, probably making more than one copy. A local printer issued the new song as a broadside. Shortly afterward, two Baltimore newspapers published it, and by mid-October it had appeared in at least seventeen other papers in cities up and down the East Coast.

For further information: http://www.miketodd.net/encyc/anthem.htmhttp://www.usa-flag-site.org/song-lyrics/star-spangled-banner.shtmlhttp://americanhistory.si.edu/starspangledbanner/the-lyrics.aspx

Writings Prompts:After hearing the song, students were given copies of the lyrics. They reflected on the extent to which the lyrics as composed by Key in the early 1800’s accurately detail our current national feelings in 2011. In addition, after the Christina Aguilera flub of the lyrics for this national anthem, students considered the extent to which she deserved to be nationally criticized for the mistake in lyrics. Mr. Downes added an additional dimension to this discussion by having the students listen to Aguilera as a child correctly deliver the lyrics. Some students opted to write poetry reflecting their opinions or furthering their argument about the viability of the anthem as a current national lyric statement.

Isama Shabbir Star Spangled Banner

This song has provedOur American Flag.This song has moved many.If you don’t feel it, you should gag.

Everyone should tryThis song is beautifulIf they don’t know, they should cryBecause this so is colorful.

This song is victory.America is our home.If we don’t know, there’s victory.I pray to lord to make us feel like home.

Iqra Zahid & Aisha ZafarStar Spangled –Dual Perspective

Do you think Star Spangled Banner needs to be rewritten?Do you think we should have a nationality anthem that was written during the War of 1812?

We should change the National Anthem over time.It gets old. Most people do not want to sing a national anthem that is about 200 years old. As times change, so too should the anthem.Its lyrics should talk about the new conflicts that we are face today.

Do you think it is necessary for students stand for the national anthem?

It is important to sing the Anthem because it is a sign of respect. It is also important to sing it. We are showing our respect to the United States for the independence we have today.

Muhammad UsmanA Vote for the Anthem

The Star Spangled Banner, while it is over 200 years old, should remain as the national anthem. It is an original part of American History, as is the flag. Why change history?Let’s just keep the Star Spangled Banner.

Giovanni Valle Not that big a deal

I think that the song is not that big of a deal. The song isn’t really that important to me. I don’t even know why it is the national anthem. I don’t even like the song that much.

Nakia Johnson Sing it out loud, correctly

I think Christina Aguilera should have made more of an effort to makeCertain that she didn’t mess up on the Star Spangled Banner. She’s gone on in hundreds of cities. In all those tour appearances, she almost never messed up her own songs.

I thInk sIngIng AmerIcA’s Anthem song wIth the correct lyrIcs should

Be as iMPortant to her as singing her own songs with correct lyrics.

Zully Vazquez

1. Do you think the Star Spangled Banner should be replaced or should it stay?

It should not be replaced because it was invented during the War of 1812! This symbolizes what was happening in the War! This represents our history! Our history isn’t just events. It’s also the songs that were written and sung during those events.

2. Do you personally think it is a big thing to stand for the National Anthem?

Yes ,because aside from destruction of wars, this song symbolizes peace. Once we sing it (national anthem) we have to stand up because we are showing out respect for the song and our respect for the flag as well!

3. Do you feel something when you see the flag?

Yes, because the flag represent us as citizens! Our flag voices peace and security.

Ahmad Raza

The changing of the lyrics is not right. That’s because it is an original piece of work. It expresses U.S. values of power, loyalty, and justice.

Marysol Velez It’s History

No, I don’t it should be rewritten because this song has a lot of meaning behind the song and the American History.I think that if we are going to stand up for the pledge we should stand if we want to, or not stand up at all. However, on a special occasion we should stand up for the flag.

Zoobia Bhatti Oh, do you know?(In style of the Anthem)

Oh! Do you know what happened in 1812?I guess not, becausepeople don’t thinkit is important enough.Well, 1812 is all aboutBritain being jealousAnd U.S.A being zealous.

our hIstory Isn’t just events. It’s Also the songs

that were written anD sung During those events.

Julian YeboahAn Honest Mistake

As an 8th grader, I don’t care that Christina Aguilera messed up the starSpangled Banner. It was an honest mistake that she made. Not everyone in the world is perfect, even if you are a celebrity. I don’t really care about the Super Bowl all that much either.

Kionna RomansChristina Aguliera’s Mistake- I Do Not Care!!

I don’t care, if she messed up the song. This is an old song. I was not paying to hear her sing. So I couldn’t care less if she messed up the words. Everyone should focus on improving himself/herself before you criticize her. She had the courage to sing in front of all those people.

Nancy AvalosChristina Aguilera

I really don’t care, people are just overacting over the whole thing. It’s an old song, and at least she had the courage to go up and sing in front of a lot of people. She already knew the lyrics before and demonstrated it in recording of her as a child Mr. Downes played. She just made a mistake, everyone makes mistakes. Not all of us have to be penalized and negatively criticized for these mistakes.

The public just want to make a big deal and put her on the spot. I say just leave her alone and get a life.

Keziah PaulGive the Lady a Break

I believe that because she’s a star that’s why the press is taking it this far. Christina is a talented young lady. Stop making it look like she’s crazy. We all know that she could “rip.” One mistake made the critic crowd want to” trip off” on her.

Jasmin RiveraAs I see it

I feel just normal. Nothing sparks when I hear the Star Spangled Banner.

I think Christina Aguilera has no alibi for messing up our National Anthem. She should have practiced more. I feel strongly about this issue of not saying the lines correctly. She should be ashamed of herself for what she has done. She knew that she would have to sing in front of millions of people. The Super Bowl! A very important event!

Mary MfumNo excuse, Christina

Christina Aguilera should already know the Star Spangled Banner. She should have made more effort because she has been performing since she was 11. There is no excuse for her not knowing the Star Spangled Banner.

Chance AndreEvery Twenty Years- New Anthem

I believe that we need a new National Anthem with a new theme every 20 years so the next generation can represent their country and its values as they perceive it at that time in history.

Iliana RodriguezSpecial Events Anthem

I don’t think we shouldn’t keep the Anthem as an everyday song, but it should be used as part of special events.

Zaheeb ZafarInspirational Anthem

The National Anthem is a really big deal. For one thing, she got paid millions. Another thing was people are proud of their country. I feel inspired when I hear the National Anthem- “In God we trust”

Christopher BudhramGive her a second chance

Christina Aguilera should get another chance to sing the Star Spangled Banner. She was singing the Star Spangled Banner since she was little.

Shenelle SmithReflections on the Star Spangled Banner in 2011

When I hear the Star Spangled Banner I don’t feel moved at all.I don’t think that Christina Aguilera messing up the Star Spangled Banner was such a big deal because people make mistakes. It can be hard to always memorize music coming from a more personal view. Christina could also have gotten caught up in a moment. Many would say that is no excuse. However, it’s not that easy to say once you’re placed in the situation. I don’t think the lyrics are outdated, but all things could use improvement to make the lyrics more relevant to today.

Marysol Velez Weighing in on Christina

I think maybe she did not practice it. She got emotional. She should have at least practiced it. I think if she wants to feel better about her performance, she should sing it again. This second time, she had better get it right.

Melissa IsaacI do not think it was a big thing that Christina Aguilera messed up on the National Anthem. I think this way, because she tried. It’s not as if she did it on purpose.

Sheefan NauthNo, it was not a big deal that she screwed up the National Anthem because everybody can make mistakes. She probably had been caught up in the moment or perhaps she was nervous.

Tamyra Williams No, it was not a big deal, because a lot of people mess up words. Maybe she was in the moment.

Trinell YoungI don’t think that it’s a bid deal that Christina Aguilera messed up the National Anthem.

Sarah ShahidThey shouldn’t be angry at her because many Americans don’t even know it themselves. It may have been a mistake by her. Even I don’t know it myself. They should be twittering about it because that is not nice.

Zully VazquezYes, I think it was a big deal because it was her National Anthem. She won Grammies but yet she messed up. She knew there was going to be many people who were expecting her to know it by heart.

I think this should be the National Anthem because it was composed during the War of 1812! It was about what was happening during the war!

Melissa Isaac Do you think we should keep the old National Anthem, since it’s so old?I think we should keep the old Anthem, no matter how old it is.

When I see the flag, do I feel something? Or do I feel nada? When I see the American flag, I do feel something. I feel proud!

Brenda Morales I mostly believe that it should be changed because it is too old. I saw much injustice going on which makes the lyrics a bit false.

I don’t think it is necessary, sometimes people are tired.

Trinell Young No, I don’t think that the Anthem should be changed because it’s a patriotic composition about the war of 1812.

Yes, because it is a patriotic song for America

No, I see the flag everyday. Therefore, I do not think about it.

Tabitha FrancoisNo, because it is a part of our history.No, because some people don’t think it is that important

Jasmin RiveraYes, because throughout the past years from the Star Spangled Banner, America has changed significantly. We now have out first Black President. It needs to be updated. The song is too old to be singing everyday minus updates.

However, it’s also a part of America’s pride.

Bridgette BabbYes, we should keep the old National Anthem because it is part of our history and it’s from a war we won.I think we should stand, while we sing the National Anthem because it is showing respect.

Sheefan Nauth Yes, we should keep our National Anthem because it’s been with us for over 200 years now and everybody is so use to it, it makes no sense to change it.

Yes, because it shows respect for the flag and our country.

I don’t feel anything but I have respect for the flag.

Abdul AjeleroNo because this anthem is too old for our time. We should change it to show how American overcame its struggle.

No, because that does not prove how America live their lives today.The flag is a symbol.

Something for you to talk about and share your reflections/commentary with us-React and respond to Mr. Downes at: towdownes@yahoo.com.

We, the students, look forward to hearing your point of view. Join the conversation.

I feel like the Star Spangled Banner should be updated. This song was written during the war of 1812. We are now in 2011 this have changed. We have gone though most worst thing than this war. This new Anthem needs to show it. This is now a new era.

Chapter 2 You’re a grand old flag , you’re a high flying flag.

Historical Context:Written in 1906 by George M. Cohan for his musical George Washington, Jr. this became the first song from a musical to sell over a million copies of sheet music.

For further information:http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/ You’re_a_Grand _Old_Flag?Was Redirected=truehttp://www.scoutsongs.com/lyrics/grandoldflag.html

Cohan’s lyrics inspired poets one hundred years later to create updates and parody format’s using the lyrics as an anchor. His songs are still part and parcel of the Scouts songs and are viable lyric expressions of patriotism.

Marysol VelezYou’re a grand old flagYou stand up to mark the landOf the free.

All of your stars shining bright.Showing us the lightTo the free to representThe peace and love youGive.

Shenelle Smith(With a nod to diverse origins)

You’re a grand old flag butNot for my native portI respect my countIt’s not to be judgeJamaica or Canada,They hold courage and respect

My flag waves high, not redWhite and blue, but Green and black, holds Prosperity wealth for eachday

Keep on waving high aboveThe land. You are the emblem of the landwhere I stand above the United States.We jam-rockYou convey love and respect,For none the less, we are theGreat land.

Chapter 3 Brother, Can you spare a dime?

Context: Recorded by Rudy Vallee as an expression of the financial suffering evoked by the Great Depression.

“Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?”, also sung as “Buddy, Can You Spare a Dime?”, is one of the best-known American songs of the Great Depression. Written in 1931 by lyricist E. Y. “Yip” Harburg and composer Jay Gorney, “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” was part of the 1932 musical New Americana; the melody is based on a Russian lullaby Gorney heard as a child. It became best known, however, through recordings by Bing Crosby and Rudy Vallee. Both versions were released right before Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s election to the presidency and both became number one hits on the charts.

For further information: http://www.lyricdepot.com/rudy-vallee/brother-can-you-spare-a dime.htmlhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brother,_can_you_spare_a_dimehttp://www.library.csi.cuny.edu/dept/history/lavender/cherries.html – lyrics, prepared by Professor Catherine Lavender for courses in The Department of History, The College of Staten Island of The City University of New York.http://www.slideshare.net/DHUMPHREYS/buddy-can-you-spare-a-dime-lyrics-explanation - Explanation of Lyrics

The students were prompted by reenactments of the unemployed figure in the song literally begging for a dime. They envisioned using their visual arts talents and evocative footage the figure once proud and at work building railroads or wearing a khaki suit, now down on his luck. Of course, the students, Dr. Rose and Mr. Downes all shared their own personal experiences with financial challenges. Dr. Rose presented her own version of this song reflecting a difficult time in her family’s history when she was a student in middle school.

Student Responses:

Maria RoblesThis song is nice the way it expresses emotions and feelings. It’s sad how they say “Brother, can you spare a dime”, but they were building a dream!

Melissa IsaacThis song to me, is a very nice song. It is an expression of how the lyricist feels badly for the people who are unemployed. It brings out the courage that they have plus their dream of getting a job.

Chance AndreThis song is sad because this man has done a lot for his country and has basically has to beg for a dime which I think is sad.

Zoheeb ZafarThis song shows that you can still dream when you’re down on your luck. “Brother can you spare a dime.”

Ikera TariqThis song to me is a good song because it shows that how he had done a good deal, yet he had to beg for a dime.

Mohammad UsmanThis song is emotional because once he had achieved his dream, his life changed. He transformed as well, instead of building a dream he was begging.

Abdul AjeleroI feel interested in the words and the meaning to it.

Jasmin RiveraI feel that it’s heartfelt when they talk about unemployment because people are losing their jobs today as well.

Shenelle SmithI feel as if the song has a lot of meaning behind the lyrics as well. Since it is so heartfelt people can relate to it.

Marysol VelezThis song is very meaningful to a lot of people. It talks about poverty and building a dream. It’s a very nice song.

Iqra Zahid This song makes me feel sad of the way people had to live back then.

Brenda MoralesThis song is really depressing because it talks about a hardworking man who lost everything. His friends would not help him in his time of need.

Isama ShabbirThey use to tell me I had a job.And they said it was dream life.I was so happy, I couldn’t bear it.I was always on time.

They use to tell me I had a job.I was awesome and great.Why is there so much sadness?I say why can’t I even have a crumb?

Once I was in a factory, I made and created.I raced and played around.Everything is ruined.Why can’t you spare a dollar?

One I made many machinesGears, screws and boltsOnce I had a machine, now it’s gone,Why can’t you spare a dollar?

Once in a tuxedo, I looked handsome full of foolishness

A dozen of dress up shoesI feel like a beaten man with blues,Why can’t you spare a dollar

Tamyra WilliamsBrother can you spare me a dimeKnowing you don’t have the timeCan I get a dollar, maybe two or three?Just enough so that I can eat.As my paper cup stays empty in handWhile you have enough to match how tall you stand.Oh, brother can you spare a dime?Giving money won’t be a crime.As day goes to night.They struggle and fight.Wondering how I’ll stay aliveWhen is my luck going to arrive?This, the life of me.Have nothing else better to do, but repeat.Brother can you spare a dime or just a little moreSo I can buy some thing from a store?Brother can you spare a dime?

Zoobia BhattiDepressionDepression, oh, oh, oh,Depression, oh, oh, oh,Depression is really bad.Sometimes it is very sad.Depression oh oh ohDepression oh oh ohBlame it on whomever, some say-But most of us knowIt’s not his/her fault oh oh oh.Depression oh oh ohDepression should be avoidedUnder any circumstances oh oh ohDepression oh oh ohDEPRESSION

Jasmin Rivera, Tamyra Williams,Tabitha FrancoisA Trio of Lyricists Revision this classicHomeless, homeless-You become lovelessHomeless, homelessWill anyone care?That your jeans are rippedAnd tarred?Begging for changeWith your little cup-You find money whereverYou can.

Zully VasquezThis song was sad because the man had to wait in line for bread! He was poor but he built many things! There was nothing he could do!

Christopher BudhramThis song was sad, because the man is poor .He has to wait in a line for bread.

Sheefan NauthThis song to me is very nice .but sad at the same time. I like how the author created a very meaningful visual in our heads, but it’s also sad that someone can have everything at one point. After that point, he can just lose it all.

Jillian SolomonMarch 5, 1930

Dear Journal,

Times are tough. My parents are unemployed and we are slowly losing everything. This all happened because my dad lost his job on the railroad. I can remember that day, when my dad came into our home with a depressed look and red marks on his fact. The marks made it appear that he was crying. The way he walked in with a blank look in his eyes and it seemed like he had left and a shell had returned in his place. I’m only 13, but I understood what was happening.

I knew because days before that when I was listening to the radio I heard that there would be a mass job layoff. I just hoped that the Depression wouldn’t hit my family. From that day forward, we lost and lost and lost. Our home in the city, my fathers pride. We lost it all. We slowly slipped through the cracks of society. I could do anything to help. That makes me depressed.

Shenelle SmithIn the midst of challenges, times get harder. You can hold your own or you can fall. Life’s a movie or so I thought. Your pedestal is your stage. You pick your destiny. and Where you belong in the moment is yours. It’s your time to shine.

Chapter 4 “Have you seen my good friend , John”? Dion“Sympathy for the Devil” Mick Jigger, Rolling Stones

History and Context- “Abraham, Martin and John” was released by Dion in 1968 as a tribute to those who were involved in the battle. Its last verse includes “Bobby” Kennedy who was assassinated in 1968 as well. It was written by singer Dick Holler and reestablished Dion in the music business. Congressman Glenn Thompson,a Republican representing the Fifth District of Pennsylvania cited this song after the Tucson shootings this year.

Sympathy for the Devil is a song by the Rolling Stones which appeared on the opening track of the 1968 Beggars Banquet album. It has the devil speaking about a long string of atrocities in the history of mankind and then refers to the Kennedy brother assassinations. It was also recorded in 1968. It was written by Mick Jigger and is also co-credited to Keith Richards.

http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=2724http://www.keno.org/stones _lyrics/sympathy_for_the _devil.htm

Student Responses:

Gerelis FelizYes, I believe that there will be other assassination attempts on U.S. politicians because they might represent ideas that others might not agree with. That may stir up hatred and drive them to do malicious acts. But, I don’t believe that an assassination will make a person live in a citizen’s memory and in history more, because what counts is what you stood up to defend. If you listen to the citizens of the U.S., care about their needs, and practice justice for all then, you will be remembered regardless of how you die.

Dezmin CagaraI believe that there will be multiple and numerous assassination attempts on political leaders. Many feel that the government is corrupt and just feels nothing but hatred for corrupt political leaders. These radicalists of hatred may take their hate to the next level and take action. These attacks cause politics to crumble as well as personal lives of those assassinated.

Julian YeboahYes, we are responsible for violence and assassination and terrorist attempts in the U.S. But not all Americans are responsible for anything that may happen to this country. Most people in the U.S. praise the seals who conducted the mission to kill Osama Bin Laden. But others, or followers might avenge his death. Thus terrorism is brought back to the U.S. In his room Osama’s compound they found diary’s saying how Osama was going to attack trains on special days, like on 9/11 anniversary, and the fourth of July.

Saima MaqsoodI don’t think we are all responsible for violence and assassination and terrorist attempts in the U.S. I feel this way because certain people have different aspects and opinions on what is right and what is wrong. Some people take it in to their own hands. Like with what happened to the college kids (Ohio) when they protested and Gabrielle Gifford.

Tamneya HauterYes, I think there might be other assassination attempts on major U.S. politicians or legislators. There have already been attempts on U.S. politicians like Gabrielle Gifford earlier this year. Once someone becomes a victim of such act it does make that person live on in the memory of citizens and history more so than if he/she dies a natural death. He/she was assassinated without reason. We remember them, so will history as dying for our country, dying because they believed in a good cause. They tried to make our world and our country a better place.

Jillian SolomonI think we are responsible and not responsible for assassination and terrorist attempts. I think we are responsible the U.S. as a whole has made decisions for other countries. It has controlled others but when some other country exercises that control on us we say it is wrong. But on the other hand, there are some crazy people out there, we can’t control them. Some people just take the wrong, violent approach to things.

Edwin MartinezI think we are not entirely responsible for violence, assassinations and terrorist attempts because we are just defending ourselves as a nation. We have some responsibility because we do have to interfere in other countries.

Chance AndreNo we aren’t all responsible for the violence and assassination and the terrorist attempts in the U.S., only a select few. The people who know what’s going on in this world are responsible. Not the innocent Americans who live in false peace and hope to have happy lives.

Angelique LucienI think that might be other assassination attempts on major U.S. politicians or rights activists or legislators. I think this because there might be representations of ideas that might anger others. Arguments can stir causing hatred, this could result in killing. But I also don’t believe an assassination will make a person live on in the memory of citizens and history.

Ejaj UddinI believe they do live on in the memory of citizens and history more so than if he or she died a natural death. I believe so because people who die of these attacks could’ve done much more instead of dying so tragically. They also put these stories all over the news and are given monuments after the die from these attacks.

Sharmilla PorterI do believe they might be other assassination attempts on major U.S. politicians or right activists or legislators because all people don’t have the same opinion, and the all clash. Some people don’t like having a higher power lead them. I feel that if the person made an impact and changed lives and beliefs, then I believe the person’s legacy and deeds should live on in memory.

Sarah Shahid No! Not everyone is responsible for violence and assassination and terrorist attempts in U.S. some people may be responsible for all this but not all the people are responsible. Generations from back a days are the ones that are responsible. Children in this generation were not involved, so why should they be blamed? The people that are responsible should be blamed, others shouldn’t be blamed.

It’s just like being accused of something, you haven’t done. On 9/11 many innocent lives were lost. Many people were killed because of misunderstandings. Only some people in the Twin Tower attack were guilty of some sort of reason, innocents were killed for only because of those specific guilty persons. We are not all responsible.

John CheungWe are all responsible for violence and terrorism. I believe that in the U.S., there is a lot of propaganda regarding terrorism. The U.S. makes it seem as if other countries are the terrorists while we are guilty of it as well. When Osama Bin Laden was killed America rejoiced over his death. I think that we are all violent people for being so happy over a death, no matter whom it was, it’s wrong for people to rejoice over a death. That’s why I believe that we are all responsible for violence, Terrorism and assassination in the U.S.

Zoobia BhattiNO! Not all people in the United States are responsible for violence, assassination and terrorist attempts. They might be a few people who are responsible for all this but not all. Past generations are the ones responsible for the violence and misunderstandings which in result cause assassinations and terrorist attempts, but the present generation and future generation is being killed and blamed for everything. It’s not really fair to punish people for something their great grandparents did. So in a way not many people now a day do things that cause violence but many people in the past did things which they did not. Also, I don’t think that everyone should get killed because not everyone is responsible. In 9/11, many people died but probably only a handful people were guilty of crime and more than 90% of those people were innocent. I think only people who are guilty should get punished and besides violence is not the best option for getting back at someone. There is law in every country and we should let law handle all these people. We should not try to take law into our own hands and not kill man innocent people.

Amando SanchezI think, some are responsible for the violence assassinations and terrorist attempts in the U.S. because some of our actions cause these things to happen. We also make people made like terrorist attempts in the U.S. On e example is like killing Osama Bin Laden which made the terrorist group mad. They could make a terrorist attempt to get us back for what we have done.

Sheefan NauthThis song to me is very nice .but sad at the same time. I like how the author created a very meaningful visual in our heads, but it’s also sad that someone can have everything at one point. After that point, he can just lose it all.

Mahnoor MianWorking to learn history through songs, music, video, acting, reacting, and websites make it more real and immediate for you in many ways. You get to know the music behind history.

Sahrah ZoobiaMy take on “Sympathy for the Devil”

Let me tell you who I amI’m a woman of love and hateI’ve been here way before youI have no fate

Isama Shabbir Analysis of Sympathy with the Devil

The tone was very exhilarating and threatening. The speaker is the devil. He is very angry and mad. It changes different time periods. He killed many people in different countries. He also talks about the Kennedy’s assassination. “ I say the assassin is responsible for Kennedy being dead. I say,” he states. The devil denies any responsibility for Kennedy’s death.

Julian YeboahI believe this song is full of a lot of anger and hate. The song “Sympathy for the Devil” is talking about how the devil really deserves sympathy not hatred for the violence . He is angry that he is the target of hatred.

Chapter 5 “What if you knew her and found her dead on the ground”? Ohio

Historical Context: Neil Young wrote the lyrics for this song in 1970. It was a hit for Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young. It commemorates the 4 students shot dead during an anti- Vietnam War demonstration at Kent State on May 4. 1970. For further information: http://thrasherswheat.org/fot/ohio.htm www.lyricsfreak.com/neil-young-ohio-lyric.html www.mp3lyrics.org

Front and Center – Mr. Downes and Mr. Kevorkian as primary sources.

Mr. Downes presented this powerful song with oral history details of how it was etched on his memory as a child of 8. Mr. Kevorkian, Principal of Ditmas, shared his personal experience with this song from the perspective of his family who already had one enlisted soldier in the Vietnam War and did not want their son Barry, to become a soldier as well.

Students listened to these concise lyrics and then took oral history notes of key quotes from Mr. Downes’s experiences and Mr.Kevorkian’s. These emotional responses were still very strong for both, even with the temporal distance of 40 years and beyond.

Iqra Zahid’s notes From Mr. Downes spoken oral history testimony.

His father was a WW2 Veteran, but his sister was what was called a hippie in those times. She protested against the Vietnam War as did her boyfriend. When the images of the fallen came on television, everyone in the Downes household said: “Oh. my God.” For an eight year old Mr. Downes those images and the song by Neil Young have stuck with him all his life.He “got” history at that moment from the lyrics:

Four dead in OhioWe’re finally on our ownSoldiers are cutting us downWhat if you knew her and found her dead on the ground?

Jasmin RiveraKey highlights of Downes oral history and commentary by Dr. RoseWorld War 2-Dad soldierMy sister was a hippyMy sister was 14 years older than me and was dating a Vietnam soldierHanging out with all those beatniks.It really didn’t affect me -OMG –Oh, mu God!!National Guard turned aroundBoom Boom Boom, four students deadShot in AmericaI am listening to the radio, songMade me cry, I finally understood what Happened. For some reason I made a connection, this song really got to meAll the time I was 7 0r 8Shot at random-Dr. RoseBrother was a Police Officer-Law in ForceI’m young kid I don’t understandThe whole picture. I knew something was wrong

Zully Vazquez What struck me in Mr. Downes’ oral history was his telling us that one year after the Kent State shootings, he heard the Neil Young song “Ohio” on the radio.

The key quotes of his that I recorded were:“Song made me cry . . . For some reason it made a connection for me to those shot. I finally realized at eight, what had happened to them. . The song connected me to history,”

“Something had to be wrong if kids were killed.”

Bridgette BabbNotes from Mr. Downes as a primary source for information on the song “Ohio”

My sister was what you would call a “hippie.”It really didn’t affect me. They shot 4 students deadThat song for some reason made me realize what happened to those 4 kids.Something had to be wrong here if they killed them.

O those poor kidsYou messed up menYou do what you pleaseKilled the innocent,And still get away.You should die,The same way you killed them.We will fight,And make you all pay.

Chapter 6 “We Didn’t Start the Fire” Billy Joel Lyrics

Historical Context: This song is one Mr. Downes routinely uses to engage students in a multimedia review of history, He shares with them a powerful recording of the song backed up by the images of the various personalities and events

http: http://artists.letssingit.com/cgi-exe/am.cgi?a=artists_song_lyrics_print&song_id=q81wrhb

www.teacheroz.com/fire.htm

The lyrics and images engaged the students in immediately asking about the personality references and the images presented in the multimedia tools. After research, Dr. Rose suggested to them that they “update” the key lyrics to reflect the 2011 personalities and events in political, entertainment, sports, and pop culture context that would parallel Billy Joel’s references.

This prompt led to these updated lyrics.

Saima MaqsoodWe Didn’t Start the Fire

Barak Obama, Lindsey Lohan, Red China,South Pacific, Brian Williams, Derek JeterCharlie Sheen, George Bush, Chevy, ipodsNorth Korea, South Korean, Britney SpearsRosenbergs, Obama dead-“The King and I” and “The Catcher in the Rye”

Ron Paul, swine flu, William’s got a new Duchess,

We didn’t start the fire.It was always burningSince the world is turning.

Kionna RomansJohn F. Kennedy, Cameron Diaz, Red China, Johnnie Ray, North America, Walter Winchell, Billy Ray Cyrus

Michael Jackson, Tiger Woods, Oprah, radiation, South Korea, North Korea, Natasha Beningfield.

R. Kelly, Anna Nicole Smith, Michael Jordan, Tucson Killing, Poor Little Girl, Twin Towers.

Recession, causing depression, Rihanna, Wiz Khalifa, Steelers vs. Jets, Bad Girls Club.

We didn’t start a fireIt was always burningSince the world’s been turningWe didn’t start the fireNo we didn’t light itBut we tried to fight it

Julian YeboahThis Song Doesn’t Start My Fire

I dislike this song for many reasons. One reason why I dislike the song is because it has no meaning to me. When I hear this song, it doesn’t stir any emotion in me. Almost all the lyrics in the song are ones I have trouble understanding. For example, I have no clue who Walter Winchell is. It’s almost like I’m listening to something composed 100 years ago. IF I were to do a survey, many of my peers would dislike the song. This line from the song “Rosenbergs, H-bomb, sugar ray, Panmunjom, Brando, the King and I and the Catcher in the Rye. “ These lyrics are very confusing to me and many other children.

Kionna RomansMichael Jackson, Tiger Woods, Oprah Winfrey, she was really hood. Beyoncé, Jay Z, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Joe Biden, Lindsey Lohan, Brittany Spear, Marijuana,” Ain’t Good 4 ya.” “ Drugs Ain’t Good.”

ChorusWe didn’t start the fireIt was always burning Since the world’s been turningWe didn’t start the fireNo we didn’t light itBut we tried to fight it

Giovanni Valle, John CheungThe song “We didn’t start a fire” tells about all the many famous people. The song also tells about many problems going on in the world. I think 8th grade should all use this song for a project. It is very historical.

Julian Yeboah/Ahmed Raza-850We couldn’t start the fire.It was always churning.Since our world was turning.We shouldn’t start the fire. Yes we shouldn’t bite it.We really didn’t light it.

Fanny/ Saima MaqsoodImmigration, economy, pollution, wars, terrorism, racism, president, sicknesses, ignorance

Sarah Shahid/ Zoobia Bhatti-850Iraq War, euphemism, suicide, economic, depression, poverty, debts, murder, terrorism, death, global warning, brutal winter.

Shahbaz Ali-850My response to Billy Joel Lyrics

We are sorry.We started the fire,And it is still burning.We started it,We help burn even higher.But yet, we are too lazy to put it out.

Chapter 7 We Write the Songs- It’s Our Turn

With the killing of Osama Bin Laden, our students were inspired to write their own reflective lyrics. They used the beginning of the anthem as a lyric starting point.

Shahbaz AliOsama Bin LadenDid you see,What you did to this country?OOsama Bin LadenWhat have you done?Even now your followers attackWhat is it that you want?Just leave us alone,OOsama Bin LadenWe’re so happy you’re deadNow we can rest in peaceFor our fallen have been avengedO O O OO O O OOsama Bin Laden“You were the cause of 9/11But we looked for you 24/7”And now we got victoryAnd you got deathOO O OOO O OOsamaO O O OO O O OOsama Bin LadenYou have now fallen.

Shahzod IsmatovOhhh-sama can you see? The victory of this country.You were the cause of 9/11Yet we searched for you 24/7.You, and evil othersYou were killed by U.S. killersI am a proud American to say“I love you U.S.A.”

Gifari HoqueOh, say can you see!!After the death of Bin Laden?The U.S. have fell on their trapNow they will come here in a zap!

The army should not have pulled the trigger,Now Al Qaeda is getting madder.After the death of their leader,Now I feel bad for the killer.

What would we do if Al Qaeda killed Obama?Would we want revenge?Well, now we seek for the truthWho really started this?What’s going on in Al Qaeda?

Ahmad RazaOsama’s gone nowEverybody went wow.Peace was bought backUntil the next attack.

One shot fired in May,Brought back better days.Joy was spread,After Osama was dead.

Everything went black,Tensions filled, Obama’s backNews went crazy,Everything was talked about it daily.

Isama ShabbirI say the song that should make all the Americans feel better is Star Spangled Banner. Many people died on 9/11 it is sad for those people who died. When someone sings that song all the grief and sadness will go. The Star Spangled Banner is such a beautiful, peaceful, and graceful song. This song makes America proud and makes people realize why they are still living. So think…what song would you choose?

Contributor Bios

Keziah PaulI am 14 yrs old. I love school. I love my mother. This book really expresses how we feel.

Gerelis FelizI am 13 years old. I love psychology. I want to work for the FBI later in my life.

Kionna RomansI love food. I am 13 years old. I want to be a model when I grow up!

Sharmila PorterI am 13 years old, I love law, and drawing. I feel that I can express myself more in my art, without people’s opinions.

Mahnoor MianI am 14 years old. I love to draw. I hate to write but I accomplish my tasks by drawing. Art is all I have without it I’m nothing.

Nanci AvalosI am 14 years old. I love photography and meteorology. My favorite thing to do is either, dance or eat. This book is going to be great. It will be filled with our opinions.

Sheefan NauthI’m 14 years old. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. I have a passion for writing and drawing in my free time as well as fashion designing.

Tamyra WilliamsI am 14 years old. I like to play sports and I love animals. I am also a friendly person.

Ikera TariqI’m 13 years old. I was born in Brooklyn, New York. I love to draw and write.

Bridgette BabbI am 14 years old. I was born in Brooklyn, NY. I have a passion for stepping and cheer. I also like to make funny faces and take pictures.

Saima MaqsoodI express myself in my writing. I like to write short stories. My favorite color is black.

Angelique LucienI am 14 yrs old. I love to draw and listening to music. My dream career is to become a fashion designer.

Tamneya HauterI am 14 years old. I like to write poetry. Poetry is an escape, just like music. Music allows us to say the words we would never say.

Melissa IsaacI’m thirteen. I love hanging out with my friends and having a good time. I also love food and drinking Arizona iced tea.

Tabitha FrancoisI was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. I am 13 years old. I love to dance and laugh. When I’m not dancing, I’m probably hanging out with friends.

Marysol VelezI was born and currently live in Brooklyn, New York. I am 14 years old. In my free time I like to paint nails and read books. Some of my favorite drinks are coffee, coca cola, and apple juice.

Abdulkamal AjeleroI was born in Brooklyn, New York and still live here. I am 13 years old. In my free time I play basketball and hangout with my friends. I hope to become famous one day.

Chance AndreI am thirteen years old. I like working out and playing my guitar.

Shenelle SmithI was born in Jamaica and raised Brooklyn, New York. Literature keeps me sane when there are times of despair. I love living in Brooklyn and playing basketball.

Iqra ZahidI am 14 years old. I was born in America and lived in Brooklyn all my life. I am into reading mystery books and writing in my spare time. I love listening to music it is my life.

Zully VazquezI am 13 years old. I was born in the U.S. but I am Mexican-American. I love eating Mexican food. It’s very delicious! I love reading horror books. I lived in Brooklyn ever since I was a baby!

Aisha ZabarI am 13 years old. I was not born in America, I was born in Pakistan. I’ve been raised in Brooklyn since I was 3 years old. I love eating delicious food!

Yohance ModesteI am 13 years old. I was raised in Brooklyn. I like to play football. I might make a living off of it but in the meanwhile I’ll just keep learning in school.

Fany RaymundoI’m 14 years old. I’m in 850 now, but it was hard getting here. I like to spend my time doing nothing just listening to music.

Dezmin CagaraI am 14 years old. I enjoy drawing to relax myself as well as playing sports.

Amando SanchezI like to play soccer. I am smart and I have a great personality.

Shahrooz KhanTo be or not to be, Shahrooz that’s me, I don’t know playing games on TV!

Muhammad Usman I am 14 years old. I like to skateboard. I also like to pay attention in class…sometimes.

Zoheeb ZafarI am 14 years old. I like video games and school. My favorite past time is going to Max Brenner’s chocolate restaurant.

James GittingsI am fourteen. I like video games, writing dark stories or poems. I love my guitar more than video games and food.

Maria RoblesI am 14 years old and I love to play volleyball. I love watching movies, and being with friends. I also love food, making a fool of myself because it makes my friends smile and laugh!

RESOURCES

Dr. Rose Cherie Reissman Template for teaching Parody Writing

Parody Writing 101-Especially for 850 and 860

The Update/Even Fit

Texts to manipulate for parody-We Didn’t Start the Fire-Abraham, Martin and John

Common Core Reading Standards 1 and 2-Reading Text Complexity and the Growth of Comprehension

Writing: Standard 4-Responding to text types through reading and research

Standard 9 Argumentation

Standard 5-Speaking and Listening: Flexible Communication and Collaboration

Writing Tool #1 Search, Identify, and Replace to Fit Now, You, and This Time and Place

Dr. Rose Recommended and Designed

How to take a classic American song that is period and time specific and go 21st Century-your age up close and personal creative.

Read through the lyrics of the song.

1. Take a pen or colored marker and circle all of the lyrics which are about a specific time or place

2. Underline all the key lyrics that work right now for you-you hear as correct or “hit” your feelings-

3. For each circled lyric word about time, place or person-substitute a time, place or person that is current

4. Keep the lyrics which fit and which you like-5. If some lyrics are a bit off-change the words-try to have your changes contain

the same number of syllables as the original.6. Rewrite the original lyric with your updated and customized changes. Title

your parody-An Update of a Modernization -an acknowledgement -that it is an appreciation of the original lyrics authored by Dion or Billy Joel.

7. Be prepared to sing or read your lyrics aloud and explain your update.8. If you can sing or play in the Glee Club dramatization, let Mr. Downes know.

Tip for parody writing: great lines and quotes can often be found in newspaper stories or online coverage.

Real life social benefits of being able to author parodies and updates, you will make friends and family very happy at social events for years to come. They will request that you write these songs and get real happiness from your work.

Lyrics for Classroom Use:

Brother Can you Spare a Dime?

They used to tell me I was building a dreamAnd so I followed the mobWhen their was earth to plow or guns to bearI was always their right on the job

They used to tell me I was building a dreamWith peace and glory aheadWhy should I be standing in line Just waiting for bread?

Once I built a railroad, I made it runMade it race against timeOnce I built a railroad, now it’s doneBrother, can you spare a dime?

Once I built a tower up to the sunBrick and rivet and limeOnce, I built a tower, now it’s doneBrother, can you spare me a dime?

Once in Khaki suits, gee we looked swellFull of that Yankee-Doodle-dumHalf a million boots went sloggin’ through HellAnd I was the kid with the drum

Say, don’t you remember, they called me “Al”It was “Al” all the timeSay don’t you remember, I’m you palBrother, can you spare a dime?

Fany RaymundoWorking to learn history through songs, music, videos, acting and websites makes it better for us to learn. With videos, acting and some websites we actually get a visual of how things happened. Using a text book, like we do for every other subject, makes the lesson boring. I personally lose concentration when I use a textbook. I would prefer music and other media to learn because it makes the lesson interesting and keeps us focused.

Maria RoblesNo I would not prefer a textbook because most kids can’t visualize while reading it is better to view it!

Fabian FongI would rather learn through songs music video and acting because it is more relatable, it also would keep me more entertained. In a text book when you read from it, it feels like work, but when you watch a video or listen to music, it doesn’t feel like work, it is fun.

Nanci AvalosWorking to learn history through songs, music, video, acting and reacting and websites make it real and more immediate for me than a textbook and exercises. Let’s face it, textbooks are very boring. In my opinion songs, music videos, and acting are much more interesting and desirable. Kids/teenagers love those types of things. So I would say music is best!

Brenda MoralesIn my opinion I think that learning history through music, songs, videos, and acting is the best way to learn it. I like this better because it seems more interesting than textbooks and exercises. The textbooks make you memorize everything but you’re not really interested. Your mind wanders when you’re reading. When you do exercises they are really boring.

When you hear music you pay attention to the lyrics. Then you think about what the lyrics mean which will teach you more. When you look at lyrics in songs to visualize more. As you watch videos, you pay more attention.

Zully VazquezMusic helps me understand what specific things were happening during the times that the author wrote. When I see and hear the lyrics I feel as if I really understand what time period it happened as well as the different changes as time passed. I wouldn’t prefer a textbook because with music/videos I would actually see the different changes in the economy, as well as seeing what happened during a specific time period.

Aisha ZafarIn my opinion, I think that learning history through songs, music, video, acting and reacting and websites makes it more real and immediate for me. I like this way because it is way more interesting than just reading it from the textbook. Some kids find it boring, I do too. Sometimes, there are vocabulary that is not in their dictionary, they can’t comprehend.

Melissa IsaacWorking with songs, music, video, acting and reacting with websites is better for me to learn because it helps me get more of a view of history with more things to see and to learn different ways. Also, I would not prefer to learn from a text book because to me, it doesn’t give me enough of a visual view to learn from like a song or video would. This is my opinion.

Marysol VelezI believe that by videos and music would make it real and more immediate for me. I believe that by playing videos it would help me understand the concept better. It is a good example for what the concept is. Music would help me understand what people were worrying about and what they were experience at that time. No I would not prefer a textbook and exercises. I would not prefer that because if I wouldn’t understand something, I would need a video to understand the concept.

Mary MfumLearning history through songs, music, etc., helps us learn. If it is a primary source and the person that wrote the song has been through that time, in history that person’s insights can inform us! It really helps us know more about what happened that time.

Student Reflections on DownesMultimedia American Song Approach

Aisha Zafar

Potential Titles:The Songs of Our lifeThe Epic SocialistsA modern outlookWords with EmotionsThe people’s voiceThe voice of the peopleThe Beat of life…the rhythm of our life

Shahrooz KhanThis project has improved social studies. I thought this project was going to be ok; but it turn out good. I would recommend this book and project because it shows the students artistic and literary skills.

Muhammad Usman Working on this project has made social studies more interesting. Doing this project we got to use different perspectives on debates. The project has also brought out the skills of the students through poetry, writing, and drawing. I would recommend other students to work on publishing a book but they would have to be determined till the end. If I had another chance to do this again I would do it again for more memories and I would go another 100% for it.

Amanda SanchezThis project has helped a lot of students with their writing skills and made Social Studies fun and interesting to learn. When the project had begun I though the project would turn out to be okay, and when we had finished it turned out to be great. If I had another project like this I would work on it because I would want to have more experienced and improve my writing skills.

Christopher Budhram Working on this published book as an end product and project has helped students realize how Social Studies is fun. At first I thought I wasn’t going to like this class but it enhanced my education.

Maria RoblesWorking on this published book as an end product and project has enhanced my content learning in Social Studies because I have now realized the consequences that people had to go through back then. At the beginning I though this project would be boring. Now that we have done the writing, art, cover, photos, talking and discovering I find the project and working with Dr. Rose turned out to be successful! I would recommend this type of book publishing project to other students because it is a great activity and you can express yourself in writing. If I had another chance at Ditmas or high school to work on another publishing project I would do it because doing a book is a way of art and expressing yourself.

Kionna RomansWorking on this book was cool. We learn a lot about history. Before I didn’t care much about history, I thought it was boring. But actually history is very interesting. This project helped me show off my writing skills.

Jillian SolomonWorking on this published book has enriched my knowledge of Social Studies. It also let me put myself in the place of people in different time periods by writing stories.

Nelly Rojas Working on this published book as an end product and project has done nothing for my content learning in social studies because even though working on it was kind of fun. I did not have my full interest in it.

Dezmin CagaraWorking on this published book as an end product and project has enhanced my content in learning social studies because it has showed me how historical events have affected pop culture and personal lives.

Fany RaymundoWorking on this published book as an end product and project has enriched my content learning in social studies class because I’ve learned many things. I’ve learned that history repeats itself and we should try not to make the same mistake people did in the past.

Student Reactions and Ongoing Commentary as This Book Evolved

Student Responses to Downes Innovation in Education

Mary Mfum I think a SS should use songs to teach, because it teaches more about history. Especially the lyricist’s point of new. Hearing a singer from that particular long time past time period does add to my experience because it shows what the person had been or what other people had been through. It also shows their feelings about the conflict.

Keziah PaulI believe that teacher should incorporate singing and dancing into the things we learn. This way the students will be more active and eager to learn what’s next. This will make the class interesting so that children want to come.

I don’t believe it should be mandatory for the kids to learn the song, but the lyrics should be at least discussed.

Melissa IsaacI think that the songs we have explored, does show feelings and experience. I really think show because of how the experience they have, are described and when these authors describe it, they use a lot of their feelings to make these great poems/books.

Bridgette BabbI think social studies/history teachers should take time to teach singing and talking about lyrics to song during regular lessons. I think teachers should do that because it helps kids understand how the song writer felt. The songs add to my experience of that time period as someone existing in March 2011. It adds to my experience by showing emotion about how I feel towards that situation back then and now. Teenagers like us listen to different types of music so music from back then could show what music sounded like.

Sheefan NauthYes, a social studies/history teacher should take their time to teach singing and talking about lyrics to these songs in regular lessons, because teenagers get bored easily so when were constantly told to read and answer questions of the text book, so its fun for us when we actually get to listen to music and study lyrics to songs. Also, because many teenagers like to listen to music, it’s a good way of combining what we like to do with what the teacher wants us to learn about.

Marysol VelezYes I do think that a Social Studies teacher should take time to sing and talk about lyrics. I believe this because if we are going to learn about history we should be able to relate to evidence that was talking about what we are learning, so we would be able to understand the lesson.

Yes, hearing a singer from the past does add to my experience in history, because I could compare and contrast the different lyrics and the meaning behind them, also now far the society has come to be.

Aisha ZafarI don’t think that it is entirely necessary for a Social Studies teacher to take time to teach singing or songs and/or even talk about songs lyrics. I believe that students will be able to grasp the subject without feedback or having a primary source to listen to. To me a song doesn’t really add to your experience of that time period but visuals do give you a sense of the time periods background.

Ikera TariqYes, other Social Studies/history teachers should take their time to teach singing and talk about the lyrics to the songs, Mr. Downes does, as a regular lesson. When teenagers are told to read and answer questions in the text book that is boring. We like to have fun. So, if they use songs to teach. Teenagers would learn, and also because many teenagers listen to music a lot, by looking at the lyrics teenagers can learn and plus know some words by heart, and kids could learn by music, both teacher and kids would benefit from this.

Jasmin RiveraIt’s important because it explains the very important events that went by. It also states the important time periods, so people can understand and know about the U.S. history, teaching and singing the songs helps the people remember and understand what. Also people can show their feelings towards history.

Yes, teachers that teach history should use Power Points, singing and make it fun. If not, children usually fall asleep or get bored. Then they don’t even learn. If they don’t learn they won’t understand what happened during history. Hearing a singer from that particular long time past time period add to your experience of that time period helps the kids understand it was an important time period.

Zully VazquezThese songs are important recording of the feelings and experiences of Americans over a particular historical time period because the songs were about all these people who lived furring that time period! They had expressed their feeling towards that historical event. Theses songs tell about specific time periods and what was happening.

When I hear the anthem I feel very proud to be an American! It represents our nation. I sing along to the Anthem because it’s catchy tune! It talks about the historical events that happened when that song was originally written.

As I review the responses, poetry, commentary, argumentation, songs, reactions, and responses to the Downes approach, I sit back and enjoy what the students produced.

It is informative to me as an educator and as an involved citizen, to note how they reacted to the songs in light of this economy.

Their responses to the prompts which tapped their engagement with pop culture, pop idols and current violence helped me and helped Mr. Downes devise prompts and use American archival pop culture to tap all their talents-art, performance, intrapersonal, and interpersonal- in service of ongoing lifelong literacy and civics/history study.

It is significant that after the Common Core alignment for this project can be made and presented, the student comments- they are 8th graders validate the high standards and content this American Songbook approach fostered for them. The lyrics they used and the oral histories they took plus the video/multimedia components of the projects involved the 8th graders in intensive primary and secondary source analysis.

It is fitting that the book close with students’ final words. Chapter 7 is comprised of their songs about current events- Bin Laden’s death. For me and for Mr. Downes, developing the next generation of American engaged citizens, through literacy and history study, is the ultimate goal of this publishing project. I believe this work and student awareness of how they met that goal, make this project a meaningful and useful one for students of American History.

Sing on!! Compose and make art for the American Songbook as it evolves!!

Dr. Rose Cherie ReissmanLiteracy ConsultantFounder Writing InstituteAuthor of Bill of Rights 21st Century Curriculum – Newsday/Character Education Curriculum NewsdayLeap Curriculum Consultant

Literacy Coaches Last and Fast Forward Word

Last Word Iqra Zahid - Student

A social studies teacher should take the time to teach singing and talking about lyrics to songs like Mr. Downes does during regular lessons. A teacher should do so because it gets the class’s attention and brings the class to life. Many kids find history boring, so if we add some music and fun to the class, kids would take more interest in class. Most kids learn more when you relate a school subject to something they are interested in doing. Many kids would not even bother coming to class because they think that we don’t need history and that we will never get it. It’s too hard, but if you mix something they do get into such as music; students will become involved in American History.

Last Word James Gittings - Student

The way songs, music, video, acting and reacting make learning history easy is by seeing what those times would have been like. The songs and videos give me an idea of how living and music would have been like living in that time period. The songs and videos make me feel like I’m in that time. Along with that it makes class a little less dull and boring. When I listen to the song and videos, it makes me want to listen. As a result of increased listening, I do better on tests, quizzes, and essays.

I would not prefer textbooks and exercises from music and video. The reason why is because the text books are boring while colorful it tends to be boring and drag on and on like endless time stream. I would not be paying attention if it weren’t for the music and videos. Textbook exercises would take a lot out of the class. They cause major boredom.

All in all if it weren’t for Downes giving us songs and videos I want just tune out what he was saying and not care. I will be thankful for all he has taught and will surely miss his teaching when I enter high school, the boredom will just increase. Thank you very much Mr. Downes. I will be thankful for your kindness forever.

This American Songbook project as conceptualized by Michael Downes- Social Studies Educator and Lawyer and as supported by Dr. Rose Cherie Reissman- Literacy Consultant and published author realized the Common Core Standards in Language Arts Grades 6-12 and Social Studies 6-12 as follows:

reading: Standards 1-3 Key ideas and detailsStudents read literature and informational texts for key details, used textual evidence, discussed characters. determined central ideas, story plots, and made connections among ideas, individuals and events.

Standards 4-6 Craft and StructureIn analysis of the song lyrics and crafting of their own responses, students analyzed the lyricist choice of words for meaning and tone, they noted how lyrics developed a key concept, and determined lyricist point of view.

Standards 7-9 Integration of Knowledge and IdeasStudents explicitly evaluated digital text media, video, and multimedia to consider the advantages and disadvantages of using various formats/mediums to present a particular idea.

writing StandardS: Standards 1-3 Text Types and PurposesStudents wrote arguments to support claims with clear reasons, wrote informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, and wrote narratives.

Standards 4-6 Production and Distribution of WritingStudents produced clear and coherent writing and used technology including the Internet to publish writing

Standards 7-9 Research to Build and Present KnowledgeStudents did short research projects to answer a question, gathered relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, drew evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection and research

Standard 10- Range of WritingStudents wrote routinely over extended time frames to prepare their publication

Speaking and LiStening:Standards 1-3 Comprehension and CollaborationStudents engaged each session in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade 8 history topics. They analyzed materials presented in media and evaluated the motives behind its presentation.

Language StandardSVocabulary Acquisition and Use Standards 4-6Students determined and clarified meaning of unknown words, demonstrated understanding of figurative language and nuances in word meanings and acquired and used accurate grade appropriate words and domain specific words.

Reading Standards for Literacy in History/Social studies 6-12

Key ideas and DetailsStandards 1-3 Students cited textual evidence using primary and secondary sources and were able to summarize sources.

CraFt and StruCtureStandards 4-6 Students were able to determine the meaning of the words in the lyrics including social studies specific vocabulary, described how lyric texts presented information, and identified aspects of the text that revealed an author’s point of view.

integration oF knowLedge and ideaSStandards 7-9 Integrated visual information with other information in print and digital texts.distinguish among fact, opinion, and reasoned judgment in a text, and analyze the relationship between a primary and secondary source on the same topic

Writing Standards for Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science and Technology

Text Types and PurposesStandards 1 and 2Students wrote arguments on American history specific content and wrote informational.explanatory texts including narrations of historical events

Other writing alignments already explicated in the English Language Arts Writing Standards which parallel the History/Social Studies ones.

COMMON CORE ALIGNMENT - 8th Grade

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