Rappers Are Millionaires (Not!)

Rappers are Millionaires (Not!)

Another great, complete lesson plan from Daniel D. Zarazua, this one uses the complexities of the "rich rapper" myth to address various topics related to microeconomics. It also gets students thinking critically about portrayals of wealth in the media, and about how economic principals can affect their lives in unexpected ways. Mr. Zarazua writes, "I've use it in different contexts, but students analyze constructions of 'wealth' as presented in music videos, concepts such as supply and demand, monopolies, distribution, and costs of living." This lesson plan is a great way to connect with students' "out-of-school" interests and expertise to teach…

Read on!
Hip Hop Across The Curriculum

Hip Hop Across the Curriculum

Hip-Hop is not just a genre of music, nor is it simply a pop fad. It is a three decade-old and growing, holistic cultural movement. What began as the popular culmination of the African-American musico-social experience quickly spread to every corner and demographic of the United States and beyond. Today, Hip-Hop exists as a dominant expression of the modern American youth experience. Accordingly, Hip-Hop can be used in a powerful and relevant way in classrooms across the academic curriculum. Not only does Hip-Hop engage students because of its inherent resonance with their lives, it can also serve as a case…

Read on!