This inquiry invites students to examine how musicians use their work to respond to societal challenges and promote change. Students will explore how these songs highlight critical issues like civil rights and social justice by analyzing “A Change is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke (written in 1963) and “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan (written in 1962). Through Cooke’s song, students will investigate the struggle for equality and societal transformation during the Civil Rights Movement, focusing on themes of perseverance and racial injustice. In examining Dylan’s song, they will analyze how metaphorical language challenges listeners to reflect on peace, freedom, and human rights, encouraging action.
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About the inquiry
Compelling Question
How can music be a call to action?
Standards
D2.His.6.9-12 Analyze the ways in which the perspectives of those writing history shaped the history that they produced.
Instructional Snapshot
The class begins with background on Sam Cooke, followed by students reading and listening to A Change is Gonna Come or Blowin’ in the Wind while annotating lyrics for evidence of a call to action. Students record and justify evidence on index cards, then use the “Last Word” discussion strategy to interpret and connect lyrics to the compelling question. Groups select the lyric that best answers the question and share their reasoning. The lesson concludes with individual reflection using a 3-2-1 graphic organizer. (For more download the Word or PDF version)
Formative Tasks
COLLABORATE: In groups, students share and discuss their chosen text, comparing interpretations and exploring its connection to the compelling question.
DELIBERATE: While listening to the song, students annotate the lyrics of A Change is Gonna Come or Blowin’ in the Wind, identifying evidence of a call to action and writing justifications.
PRODUCE: Groups select the lyric that best answers the compelling question, share with the class, and reflect individually on insights, confusion, and areas for further exploration.
Sources
Source Set: “A Change Is Gonna Come,” Sam Cooke, lyrics and “Blowin’ in the Wind,” Bob Dylan, lyrics
Summative Performance Task
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Taking Informed Action
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