$5 - $10 Black History Month Independent Work Packet (by date, oldest first)

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Civil Rights Heroes & History Engaging Reading Comprehension Worksheet Bundle

By More Lessons Less Planning

Civil Rights Heroes & History: A Bundle of Engaging Reading Comprehension Activities

This compelling bundle offers 11 captivating reading comprehension activities that bring the Civil Rights Movement to life for your students.
Uncover the inspiring stories and enduring legacies of iconic figures like Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., and countless others who bravely fought for equality.

Explore pivotal moments like the Freedom Rides, the Brown v. Board decision, and the March on Washington, gaining a deeper understanding of the movement's impact on American history.

Engage your students with:

  • Informative reading passages packed with historical context and captivating details.
  • Primary source analysis of speeches, news articles, and other firsthand accounts.
  • Thought-provoking questions that encourage critical thinking, discussion, and reflection.
  • Multiple choice, true or false, fill in the blank, and short answer formats to assess comprehension at various levels.
  • Detailed answer keys for self-assessment and guided discussions.

Let's explore the powerful stories within:

1. From Bus Boycott to Beloved Icon: Decoding Rosa Parks' Legacy:

This activity goes beyond the Montgomery Bus Boycott, exploring Rosa Parks' lifelong activism, leadership, and enduring impact on the movement.

2. Dream Big, Fight Fierce: Malcolm X's Radical Voice for Equality:

Students will examine Malcolm X's life philosophy, analyzing his critiques of American society and his calls for self-determination.

3. Beyond Marches: Dr. King's Legacy of Love and Justice:

This activity delves into Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s commitment to nonviolence, social justice, and systemic change, analyzing excerpts from his speeches and exploring his lesser-known campaigns.

4. Freedom Rides: Risking Everything for Change:

The story of the Freedom Rides unfolds, highlighting the courage of participants and the impact on desegregation efforts. Students will create timelines, analyze firsthand accounts, and discuss the significance of nonviolent resistance.

5. Selma: A Defining Moment in the March for Equality:

This activity examines the Selma to Montgomery marches, analyzing primary sources and comparing Selma to other pivotal events to understand its lasting impact on voting rights.

6. Brown v. Board: Breaking the Walls of Segregation:

Students will delve into the landmark Brown v. Board case, analyzing the legal arguments and historical context, while researching the experiences of the Little Rock Nine and the ongoing fight for educational equity.

7. From Lunch Counters to Sit-Ins: The Power of Youth Activism:

This comprehensive activity highlights the role of young people in the movement, showcasing their courage and impact through sit-ins and other forms of protest. Students will learn about specific youth activists, analyze speeches, and discuss the importance of youth involvement in social change.

8. Freedom's Song: Music as a Weapon in the Civil Rights Struggle:

Explore the power of music in the movement, analyzing anthems like "We Shall Overcome" and artists like Nina Simone. Students will analyze lyrics and historical context of protest songs, understanding how music served as a powerful tool for change.

9. From "I Have a Dream" to Action: The Enduring Legacy of the March on Washington:

This activity examines the historical context, key figures, and lasting impact of the March on Washington, with emphasis on Dr. King's iconic speech and its call to action. Students will analyze primary sources, compare the March to other pivotal moments, and discuss its relevance to contemporary social justice movements.

10. The Long Road to Voting Rights: From Segregation to Empowerment:

This resource explores the historical struggle for voting rights for Black Americans, highlighting key milestones, discriminatory tactics like Jim Crow laws, and ongoing challenges to voter suppression. Students will analyze timelines, primary sources, and discuss the importance of protecting voting rights.

11. The Civil Rights Movement:

This resource provides a broader context for the movement, encompassing additional figures, events, and ongoing issues related to social justice.

12. The Black Panther Party:

This resource discusses the political movement advocating for self-defense and social justice.

Learning Objectives:

  • Analyze the historical context, motivations, and key figures of the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Evaluate primary sources to understand the perspectives and experiences of individuals involved in the movement.
  • Analyze the effectiveness of different strategies employed by Civil Rights activists.
  • Explore the impact of landmark events and legislation on the fight for equality.
  • Recognize the ongoing relevance of the Civil Rights Movement in contemporary struggles for social justice.

Common Core Standards Alignment:

  • RI.5.1: Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
  • RI.5.2: Determine the central ideas or author's purpose of a text and explain how it is developed.
  • RI.5.3: Analyze the relationship between a primary and secondary source on the same topic.
  • RI.5.8: Explain how an author uses reasons and evidence to support a point of view.
  • SS.5.US.3: Explain the impact of key events and individuals on the Civil Rights Movement.

Expand your students' understanding of this critical chapter in American history and empower them to become informed and engaged citizens!

Ready to unlock your students' critical thinking potential?

Explore my store for a treasure trove of reading comprehensions that tackle diverse themes and inspire insightful discussions. From captivating historical journeys to mind-bending scientific discoveries, there's something to enrich every learner! Support a fellow educator and get rewarded!

Purchase this resource, leave a review, and earn TeachShare credits you can use on any product on the platform. Your feedback helps others and benefits you too!

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$13.68
$6.19
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Ancient Ghana: Complete Reading Comprehension Worksheet Unit Bundle

By More Lessons Less Planning

This 8-reading worksheet bundle delves into various aspects of ancient Ghana, offering a comprehensive and engaging exploration of this fascinating West African civilization. Each reading focuses on a specific theme, including:

  • Leadership and legacy: Uncover the stories of iconic rulers like Tenkamenin and Queen Amina, analyzing their economic reforms, military prowess, and cultural impact.
  • Thriving economy: Journey through bustling trade routes, understand the role of gold dust as currency, and explore the lives of farmers, traders, and slaves within the Ghanian economic system.
  • Daily life and culture: Unravel the tapestry of everyday life in Ghana, from the grandeur of the royal palace to the simplicity of village huts, examining architecture, fashion, food, and religious practices.
  • Clash of faiths and fall: Witness the historical context of the Almoravid invasion, analyze the impact of Islam on Ghanaian society, and understand the consequences of the Battle of Beth Koufo.
  • Beyond gold: Step away from the mines and delve into the vibrant world of children's games, traditional crafts like pottery and weaving, and vibrant festivals that enriched Ghanaian culture.
  • Majesty of kings and queens: Unmask the lives of royalty, explore their daily routines and responsibilities, and discover the role of griots in preserving history and cultural identity.
  • Warriors and raiders: Embark on trade routes with the Ghana army, learn about their weapons and training, and understand their role in protecting the kingdom's prosperity.
  • Treasures of the lost city: Unearth the mysteries of ancient Ghana through archaeological discoveries, explore the lost city of Djenné-Djenno, and appreciate the ongoing efforts to reconstruct the kingdom's history.

Review:

  • Variety of topics: The diverse range of readings ensures students gain a well-rounded understanding of ancient Ghana, going beyond the typical focus on gold and trade.
  • Engaging narrative: The vivid storytelling and primary source excerpts bring history to life and spark students' curiosity.
  • Interactive activities: Multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, short answer questions, and creative prompts like map activities and writing exercises offer different avenues for assessment and solidify learning.
  • Differentiation: The varying difficulty levels within each reading and the diverse activities cater to different learning styles and abilities.
  • Common Core Standards alignment: The resource clearly outlines how it aligns with relevant Common Core Standards, making it easy for teachers to integrate it into their curriculum.
$10.00
$6.99
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Current Event Guided Reading Comprehension Bundle #1

By More Lessons Less Planning

Ignite Critical Thinking and Informed Debate with 11 Essential Current Events Worksheets

Bring current events to life in your classroom with this comprehensive bundle of 10 engaging and thought-provoking worksheets!
Key features:

  • Explore 11 crucial issues shaping today's world: Gun control, immigration, abortion, housing market,social security, cybersecurity, political polarization, racial justice, voting rights, climate change, and education.
  • Engage students with a variety of activities: Multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer questions foster critical thinking and analysis.
  • Incorporate diverse perspectives: Primary sources provide authentic insights and encourage informed debate.
  • Boost critical thinking and argumentation skills: Students learn to analyze arguments, form opinions, and participate in respectful discussions.
  • No-prep, easy implementation: Answer keys included for quick assessment.
  • Aligned with current events, social studies, and civics standards:

Empower students to navigate complex issues, analyze diverse viewpoints, and become informed citizens!

Download this bundle today and spark meaningful conversations in your classroom!

Related products you may be interested in!

Current Event Bundle #2: 

  • Dive deeper, spark action! Explore diverse international issues with 10 engaging reading comprehensions. Purchase today!

Student Rights:

  • Empower students to navigate real-world situations! 10 clear, engaging reads on rights & responsibilities. Get yours now!

Student Led Action:

  • Make your students' voices heard! 10 inspiring readings of student-led action on current issues. Ignite change today!
$13.75
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Black History Month Activity a Research WebQuest Independent Work & Sub Plans

By A World to Explore Store - A Heritage Month Depot

Do you want to help your students learn about African American history? Do you want to support diversity and an inclusive classroom? Then download this no prep Black History Month Activity a Research WebQuest resource! This no-prep, editable, in-class, and digital activity is an online scavenger hunt of the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture!

This activity allows students to learn about the museum's collection in a fun and engaging manner. Played individually or in small groups, this WebQuest includes items to find, stories to read, and reflection questions.

Students will explore the museum (either virtually or in person!) to further their understanding of the following:

  • Frederick Douglass
  • Harriet Tubman
  • The Tulsa Race Riot
  • Emmett Till
  • Emancipation Proclamation
  • Buffalo Soldiers
  • Significance of August 28
  • Black Panthers
  • Million Man March
  • Little Rock
  • Music, sports, and much more!

How you can use this resource:

  • This can be completed in one full 45-minute class
  • Great for meaningful homework OR extra credit
  • Makes for a great sub plan

This resource includes:

  • WebQuest/scavenger hunt (The URLs provided in this WebQuest are not 'live.' They are kept very simple so that students can easily type the URLs in the search bar to hunt for their answers). Text boxes are all set, ready to go!
  • Editable copy of the same WebQuest
  • Instructions, reflection questions, and an answer key
  • Live links are provided on the last page of the resource
  • Website evaluation form
  • Terms of Use

✈️ Click here to follow A World to Explore Store and be the first to know about brand new games and activities!

Other Resources You'll LOVE:

  • Black History Month Activity WebQuest of Achievements
  • Black History Month WebQuest BUNDLE
  • Black History Month Activity People in STEM

Additional WebQuests:

  • Hispanic Heritage Month Activity WebQuest
  • Hispanic-Heritage-Month-Bulletin-Board-Classroom-Decor
  • Persian New Year "Nowruz" Activity WebQuest
  • Ramadan WebQuest
  • Arab American Heritage Activity WebQuest
  • Asian American and Pacific Islander Activity WEBQUEST
  • Juneteenth Activity
  • Hispanic Flag Posters
  • Natural Disasters Activity a no prep WEBQUEST
  • Natural Disasters Trivia for Middle and High School
  • Natural Disasters Activity Bundle WebQuest & 3 Trivia Games
  • Endangered Animal WebQuest
English Language Arts
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Black History Month
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BUNDLE Black History Month Research Activity for Independent Work Sub Plans

By A World to Explore Store - A Heritage Month Depot

Are you looking for an engaging way to learn about African American history and culture? Are you struggling to motivate your students to learn? Then download this no prep and editable BUNDLE Black History Month Research Activity! Included is a WebQuest of the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture and WebQuest of African American Achievements! This research activity is perfect for Black History Month, small group instruction, substitute plans, homework, and more!

When you purchase this resource, you'll receive the activities in both print and digital formats. The research questions provided allow for scaffolded instruction that can be completed individually, in pairs, or in small groups. You can even use this lesson as a fun team-building or gamified activity. Your students are guaranteed to learn more about winter holidays with this high-quality, no-prep resource! Please re-download this resource every year to ensure you are receiving the most updated copy.

WebQuest of African American Achievements

Students will learn about some of the achievements of African Americans engaged in politics, medicine, STEM, the arts, sports, business, and more.

WebQuest of the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture

This engaging WebQuest scavenger hunt will take you on an exploration of the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture. Played individually or in small groups, this WebQuest includes items to find, stories to read, and reflection questions.

Students will explore the museum (either virtually or in person!) to further their understanding of the following:

  • Frederick Douglass
  • Harriet Tubman
  • The Tulsa Race Riot
  • Emmett Till
  • Emancipation Proclamation
  • Buffalo Soldiers
  • Significance of August 28
  • Black Panthers
  • Million Man March
  • Little Rock
  • Music, sports, and much more!

Ways to Use This Resource:

  • Full Class Activity
  • Small Group Instruction
  • Homework
  • Extra Credit
  • Substitute Plan
  • ... and more!

This Resource Includes:

  • 2 WebQuests (Print, Digital, and Editable Formats)
  • Instructions, Reflection Questions, Answer Key
  • Live links are provided on the last page of the resource
  • Website evaluation form
  • Terms of Use

✈️ Click here to follow A World to Explore Store and be the first to know about brand new games and activities!

Other Resources You'll LOVE:

  • Black History Month Activity WebQuest of Achievements
  • Black History Month WebQuest BUNDLE
  • Black History Month Activity People in STEM

Additional WebQuests:

  • Hispanic Heritage Month Activity WebQuest
  • Hispanic-Heritage-Month-Bulletin-Board-Classroom-Decor
  • Persian New Year "Nowruz" Activity WebQuest
  • Ramadan WebQuest
  • Arab American Heritage Activity WebQuest
  • Asian American and Pacific Islander Activity WEBQUEST
  • Juneteenth Activity
  • Hispanic Flag Posters
  • Natural Disasters Activity a no prep WEBQUEST
  • Natural Disasters Trivia for Middle and High School
  • Natural Disasters Activity Bundle WebQuest & 3 Trivia Games
  • Endangered Animal WebQuest
$11.99
$9.99
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Bundle Dr Martin Luther King Jr Activities for Independent Work or Sub Plans

By A World to Explore Store - A Heritage Month Depot

Do you want to make learning about Dr Martin Luther King engaging? Do you want your students to improve their research skills and be engaged and motivated to learn? Then download this Bundle Dr Martin Luther Kind Jr Activities!

A handout of the trivia questions is included to be used as quiet seat work, as homework, or as emergency sub plans.

The WebQuest is editable

TRIVIA GAMES

These small-group or full-class activities will help your students learn about Dr King in a fun and interactive manner. This resource comes with 35 multiple-choice questions and instructions for three different games. Games can be played while moving around the classroom or sitting in seats. Also included is a handout of the trivia for students to use as a quiet activity at their desks.

WEBQUEST

When you purchase this scavenger hunt resource, you'll receive the activity in both print and digital formats. The research questions provided allow for scaffolded instruction that can be completed individually, in pairs, or in small groups. Your students are guaranteed to learn more about Dr King with this high-quality, no-prep resource! Great for homework, small group activities, sub plans, and virtual learning.

This resource includes:

  • 35 unique multiple-choice trivia questions
  • Instructions on how to play 3 different trivia games
  • Answers (answers to each question are in BOLD)
  • Extra handout without answers
  • WebQuest/scavenger hunt (The URLs provided in this WebQuest are not 'live.' They are kept very simple so that students can easily type the URLs in the search bar to hunt for their answers). Text boxes are all set, ready to go!
  • An editable version of the WebQuest
  • Instructions, reflection questions, & answer key
  • Live links are provided on the last page of the resource
  • Website evaluation form
  • Terms of Use

How to use this resource:

  • To learn about Dr King's life
  • For a classroom party
  • For sub plans
  • When your students need a 'brain break'
  • And more!

✈️ Click here to follow A World to Explore Store and be the first to know about brand-new games and activities!

Other Resources You'll LOVE:

  • Martin Luther King Activity WebQuest
  • Martin Luther King Bulletin Board with Reflections
  • Martin Luther King Activities No Prep Games
  • Winter Holidays Around the World BULLETIN BOARD
  • Winter Holidays BUNDLE with WebQuest, Trivia Games, & Bulletin Board
  • Winter Holidays Around the World 3 Trivia Games with Handout
$7.99
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BUNDLE Dr Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Bulletin Board Set

By A World to Explore Store - A Heritage Month Depot

Do you want to make learning about Dr Martin Luther King engaging? Do you want your students to improve their research skills and be engaged and motivated? Then download this BUNDLE Dr Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Bulletin Board Set! They will also enjoy interacting with the bulletin board that will brighten your room.

A handout of the trivia questions is included to be used as quiet seat work, as homework, or as emergency sub plans.

The WebQuest is editable

TRIVIA GAMES

These small-group or full-class activities will help your students learn about Dr King in a fun and interactive manner. This resource comes with 35 multiple-choice questions and instructions for three different games. Games can be played while moving around the classroom or sitting in seats. Also included is a handout of the trivia for students to use as a quiet activity at their desks.

BULLETIN BOARD

The perfect way to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr Day is with this interactive bulletin board featuring 20 low-ink mini-posters of quotes by Dr King! This bulletin board also comes with 4 interactive reflection mini-posters to encourage students to share their thoughts and feelings about non-violent resistance and forgiveness. As a bonus, you will also receive a handout of the quotes along with writing reflection prompts. No prep - print on 8.5 X 11 paper and hang!

WEBQUEST

When you purchase this scavenger hunt resource, you'll receive the activity in both print and digital formats. The research questions provided allow for scaffolded instruction that can be completed individually, in pairs, or in small groups. Your students are guaranteed to learn more about Dr King with this high-quality, no-prep resource!Great for homework, small group activities, sub plans, and virtual learning.

This resource includes:

  • 35 unique multiple-choice trivia questions
  • Instructions on how to play 3 different trivia games
  • Answers (answers to each question are in BOLD)
  • Extra handout without answers
  • 20 low ink 8.5 X 11 mini-posters
  • Title Page
  • Brief Biography
  • 4 reflection mini-posters
  • BONUS List of all quotes with a reflection writing activity
  • WebQuest/scavenger hunt (The URLs provided in this WebQuest are not 'live.' They are kept very simple so as students can easily type the URLs in the search bar to hunt for their answers). Text boxes are all set, ready to go!
  • An editable version of the WebQuest
  • Instructions, reflection questions, & an answer key
  • Live links are provided on the last page of the resource
  • Website evaluation form
  • Terms of Use

How to use this resource:

  • To learn about Dr King's life

  • For a classroom party

  • For sub plans

  • When your students need a 'brain break'

  • And more!

✈️ Click here to follow A World to Explore Store and be the first to know about brand-new games and activities!

Other Resources You'll LOVE:

  • Martin Luther King Activity WebQuest
  • Martin Luther King Bulletin Board with Reflections
  • Martin Luther King Activities No Prep Games
  • Winter Holidays Around the World BULLETIN BOARD
  • Winter Holidays BUNDLE with WebQuest, Trivia Games, & Bulletin Board
  • Winter Holidays Around the World 3 Trivia Games with Handout
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BUNDLE Martin Luther King Activities and Bulletin Board for Black History Month

By A World to Explore Store - A Heritage Month Depot

Do you want to make learning about Dr Martin Luther King engaging? Do you struggle to find activities that motivate your students to learn about famous people for Black History Month? Then download this BUNDLE Martin Luther King Activities and Bulletin Board for Black History Month! Your students will improve their research skills and be engaged and motivated with this WebQuest! You can honor and celebrate the holiday with this bulletin board featuring 20 low-ink posters of quotes along with 4 interactive posters. Well suited for the Language Arts or Social Studies classroom, and perfect for individuals and teams, your students will learn about Dr King's life, achievements, and more.

WebQuest - EDITABLE!

When you purchase this scavenger hunt resource, you'll receive the activity in both print and digital formats. The research questions provided allow for scaffolded instruction that can be completed individually, in pairs, or in small groups. Your students are guaranteed to learn more about Dr King with this high-quality, no-prep resource! Great for homework, small group activities, sub plans, and virtual learning, your students are guaranteed to learn more about Dr King!

BULLETIN BOARD

The perfect way to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr Day is with this interactive bulletin board featuring 20 low ink mini-posters of quotes by Dr King! This bulletin board also comes with 4 interactive reflection mini-posters to encourage students to share their thoughts and feelings about non-violent resistance and forgiveness. As a bonus, you will also receive a handout of the quotes along with writing reflection prompts. No prep - print on 8.5 X 11 paper and hang!

This resource contains:

  • 20 low ink 8.5 X 11 mini-posters
  • Title Page
  • Brief Biography
  • 4 reflection mini-posters
  • BONUS List of all quotes with a reflection writing activity
  • WebQuest/scavenger hunt (The URLs provided in this WebQuest are not 'live.' They are kept very simple so that students can easily type the URLs in the search bar to hunt for their answers). Text boxes are all set, ready to go!
  • Same WebQuest in an editable format
  • Instructions & Answer Key & Live links
  • Website evaluation form
  • Terms of Use

How you can use this resource:

  • Meaningful homework
  • Sub-plans
  • Pre-teach a lesson on MLK or Black History Month

✈️ Click here to follow A World to Explore Store and be the first to know about brand-new games and activities!

Other Resources You'll LOVE:

  • Martin Luther King Activity WebQuest
  • Martin Luther King Bulletin Board with Reflections
  • Martin Luther King Activities No Prep Games
  • Winter Holidays Around the World BULLETIN BOARD
  • Winter Holidays BUNDLE with WebQuest, Trivia Games, & Bulletin Board
  • Winter Holidays Around the World 3 Trivia Games with Handout
$8.99
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King of Ragtime: A Fun Exploration of Scott Joplin's Classical American Music

By Agee and Row Classical Music Appreciation

Unlock the genius of the ragtime king with engaging listening activities, biography pages, and even a word puzzle! Students learn about this prolific composer and his iconic works through interactive worksheets while exploring Joplin's distinct American sound.

Learning Objectives

  • increased knowledge of American composer Scott Joplin
  • familiarity with the 'ragtime' style of music
  • familiarity with the composer's works
  • ability to recognize, and engage with, popular pieces of music
  • identify different instrument sounds
  • social-emotional exploration of feelings and moods within the music
  • creative expression by drawing and choosing colors related to a musical theme

What's Included:

  • 1-page Resource Guide
  • Listening Sheet Star Rating Guide (Students rate with pumpkins!)
  • Listening Sheets
  • Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets
  • Composer Biography Page - fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the composer's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes!
  • Composer Research Sheet - students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country.
  • Composer Rating Activity - there are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to.
  • Word Composer Activity - the classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their score.

Scott Joplin Printable Listening Sheets: (two pages per piece)

  1. The Entertainer
  2. Maple Leaf Rag
  3. Augustan Club Waltz
  4. Kismet Rag
  5. Ragtime Dance
  6. Weeping Willow Rag
  7. Swipesy Cake Walk
  8. Silver Swan Rag

Ragtime Break! This ragtime-themed brain break activity pack features five compositions by Scott Joplin! The Star Rating and Emoji guides are included as a fun reference (color/b&w.) Also great for sub plans & sub tubs!

  1. Great Crush Collision March (1896)
  2. Harmony Club Waltz (1896)
  3. March Majestic (1902)
  4. The Rosebud March (1905)
  5. Rose Leaf Rag (1907)

Do you need fun and engaging brain breaks? This classical music activity pack features 6 listening activities to experience! The Star Rating and Emoji guides are included as a fun reference (color/b&w.) Also great for sub plans & sub tubs!

Featured Music:

  1. The Easy Winners, Scott Joplin

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

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The Duke of American Jazz: A Musical Journey with Duke Ellington

By Agee and Row Classical Music Appreciation

"I used this for Black History Month with my 3rd-5th grades and it was great! I used the listening pages to compare/contrast "Take the A Train" pieces with the symphony or with the vocalists and the students ate it up! Thank you!!!!!!!!" - Danelle F.

Just print & play! Do you need engaging jazz activities or music sub plans? These printable listening sheets offer creative ways for students to learn more about the life and compositions of Edward "Duke" Ellington! There are now three sets in one!

Learning Objectives

  • increased knowledge of American jazz composer Duke Ellington
  • familiarity with the composer's works
  • ability to recognize, and engage with, popular pieces of music
  • identify different instrument sounds
  • social-emotional exploration of feelings and moods within the music
  • creative expression by drawing and choosing colors related to a musical theme

Did You Know?

  • Edward Ellington was known as the "Duke" for his suave and classy demeanor.
  • He received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1966.
  • The "Duke" was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969.
  • "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008.

Duke Ellington Classical Music Listening Activities

What’s Inside:

  • Five Star Rating Guide
  • Composer Fact Sheet: Each composer fact sheet in this series includes fun, basic information – full name, birthplace, birth date, and more. One of the composer’s most popular compositions is also included. The fact sheet contains a place for writing fun facts or notes.
  • Word Composer Activity: In the classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words. Add a timer for an extra challenge.
  • Birthplace Fact Sheet: Use your favorite geographical resource to find the country’s language(s), leadership, traditional foods, and more! The historical name of some territories may have changed, but the most modern country is used for easy reference.
  • Birthday Coloring Page: A fun coloring page repeats the composer’s birthday, and invites the artist to color in a special cupcake to celebrate the occasion.
  • Composer Study Page: Students compile a short biographical page with the composer's full name, birthplace, instruments, and more!
  • Composer Vocabulary A six-word vocabulary list that typically includes the composer’s name, birthplace, instrument, or other related terms. Space is provided to trace each term and the included handwriting paper can be used for additional practice.
  • Full Writing Page
  • Writing/Drawing Page
  • Drawing Page
  • Listening Activity Sheets Listening sheets include the title of a popular piece, the composer, a black & white composer to color in, and a space for drawing any scene that may come to mind when listening. There are additional options to identify the mood of a piece and indicate which instruments are playing.
  • Weather Color & Listen Sheet: While listening to the selected piece, students can color in the weather elements they feel and hear.
  • Emotions Color & Listen Sheet: Students color the character(s) that best identify their emotions while listening to the music.
  • Emojis Color & Listen Sheet: Twelve emojis to choose from! Students choose the emoji faces that best match their feelings or impressions about the music.

Duke Ellington Classical Music Activities, Black History Month, April, Jazz

Printable Listening Sheets (four pages per piece!)

  1. Take the 'A' Train
  2. It Don't Mean a Thing
  3. In a Sentimental Mood
  4. I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart
  5. Perdido
  6. Rockin' in Rhythm
  7. C-Jam Blues
  8. Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue
  9. Soda Fountain Rag
  10. Harlem

Resource Contents:

Composer Fact Sheet - From the composer's birthplace to the instruments they've studied, this one-page reference sheet will make a great handout for your students.

Birthplace Guide - Add in some geographical research to discover more about where the composer was born! This page includes space for writing the capital, language, and even a popular food.

Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.

Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

Printable Listening Sheet Sets Include:

  1. It Don't Mean a Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing
  2. In a Sentimental Mood
  3. Take the 'A' Train
  4. Mood Indigo
  5. I Let a Song Go Out of my Heart
  6. Perdido
  7. Rockin' in Rhythm

BONUS FILE! Duke Ellington Carnival Listening Sheets (same music!)

These NEW activity sheets feature a carnival theme! Students can color their own carnival while listening to this selection of Duke Ellington compositions!

Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!

Carnival Listening Sheets Include:

  1. It Don't Mean a Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing
  2. In a Sentimental Mood
  3. Take the 'A' Train
  4. Mood Indigo
  5. I Let a Song Go Out of my Heart
  6. Perdido
  7. Rockin' in Rhythm
  8. Soda Fountain Rag

Need More Black History Month Resources?

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The Ragtime Revolution: Exploring the Classical Musical World of Scott Joplin

By Agee and Row Classical Music Appreciation

"Another great resource to teach Scott Joplin! Students love learning about the man who made "the ice cream truck song!" :)" - Dibble's Dabbles

Just print & play! Do you need engaging classical music activities or music sub plans? These printable listening sheets offer creative ways for students to learn more about the life and compositions of Scott Joplin!

What’s Inside:

  • Five Star Rating Guide
  • Composer Fact Sheet: Each composer fact sheet in this series includes fun, basic information – full name, birthplace, birth date, and more. One of the composer’s most popular compositions is also included. The fact sheet contains a place for writing fun facts or notes.
  • Word Composer Activity: In the classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words. Add a timer for an extra challenge.
  • Birthplace Fact Sheet: Use your favorite geographical resource to find the country’s language(s), leadership, traditional foods, and more! The historical name of some territories may have changed, but the most modern country is used for easy reference.
  • Birthday Coloring Page: A fun coloring page repeats the composer’s birthday, and invites the artist to color in a special cupcake to celebrate the occasion.
  • Composer Study Page: Students compile a short biographical page with the composer's full name, birthplace, instruments, and more!
  • Composer Vocabulary Another six-word vocabulary list that typically includes the composer’s name, birthplace, instrument, or other related terms. Space is provided to trace each term and the included handwriting paper can be used for additional practice.
  • Full Writing Page
  • Writing/Drawing Page
  • Drawing Page
  • Listening Activity Sheets Listening sheets include the title of a popular piece, the composer, a black & white composer to color in, and a space for drawing any scene that may come to mind when listening. There are additional options to identify the mood of a piece and indicate which instruments are playing.
  • Weather Color & Listen Sheet: While listening to the selected piece, students can color in the weather elements they feel and hear.
  • Emotions Color & Listen Sheet: Students color the character(s) that best identify their emotions while listening to the music.
  • Emojis Color & Listen Sheet: Twelve emojis to choose from! Students choose the emoji faces that best match their feelings or impressions about the music.

Printable Listening Sheets (four pages per piece!)

  1. The Entertainer
  2. Maple Leaf Rag
  3. Augustan Club Waltz
  4. Kismet Rag
  5. Ragtime Dance
  6. Weeping Willow Rag
  7. Swipesy Cake Walk
  8. Silver Swan Rag
  9. Fig Leaf Rag
  10. Pleasant Moments

Need More Black History Month Resources?

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Black History Month Listening Activities | Classical Music ★

By Agee and Row Classical Music Appreciation

"This is one of my favorite things that I purchased last school year. It's a great resource to use any time of the year." - Stuck on Music Class

Print & Play! Do you need engaging and mindful activities for your Black History Month units/plans? Add music (and history!) with this selection of printable listening sheets by George Walker, Scott Joplin, Florence Price, and more!

See the FULL PREVIEW for an inside look! Please feel free to ask any questions below.

Learning Objectives

  • increased knowledge of composers
  • familiarity with the composer's works
  • ability to recognize, and engage with, popular pieces of classical music
  • identify different instrument sounds
  • social-emotional exploration of feelings and moods within classical music
  • creative expression by drawing and choosing colors related to a musical theme

Listening Sheets Included: (two per piece)

  1. Symphony No. 3 in C Minor, Florence Price
  2. Sinfonia No. 3, George Walker
  3. Violin and Piano Sonata No. 2, George Walker
  4. Symphony in G Major, Op. 11, No. 1, Joseph Bologne
  5. Violin Concerto in G Major, Op.2, No. 1, Joseph Bologne
  6. Symphony No. 4 in D Minor, Florence Price
  7. Deep River, Op. 59, No. 10, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor
  8. Hiawatha's Wedding Feast, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor
  9. Afro-American Symphony, William Grant Still
  10. Weeping Willow, Scott Joplin
  11. Sunflower Slow Drag, Scott Joplin
  12. Blue in Green, Miles Davis
  13. After the Rain, John Coltrane
  14. Troubled Water, Margaret Bonds

Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.

Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snow day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

BONUS! Black History Month Emoji Listening Sheets

Each featured piece also has an emoji listening sheet (15 pages.)

Emoji Listening Sheets include:

Emoji Rating Guide (14 emojis to choose from, color and b&w)

Listening Sheets - there are no wrong answers! Students can use the checkboxes to note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more!

Checkbox options:

Time, nature, settings, instruments, colors, and more! Students can also color in the emojis that best describe their listening experience in the emoji grid.

The 'Inspiration Box' can be used for:

Drawing/doodling, journaling, notes, poetry, etc.

Need More Black History Month Resources?

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Black History Month
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Martin Luther King Jr | Classical Music Activities

By Agee and Row Classical Music Appreciation

Print & Play! Do you need engaging and mindful activities to commemorate Dr. King's birthday? What did the world sound like when he was born in 1929? Which composers produced the soundtrack to history and change? This collection of listening sheets will immerse your group inside of a musical time capsule.

Inspired by the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr! This set of listening sheets include classical compositions from the year of his birth - January 15, 1929.

To incorporate the season, students color in snowflakes when giving each piece their star rating!

Listening Sheets Included:

01. Viola Concerto, William Walton

02. Chôros No. 9, Heitor Villa-Lobos

03. Violin Sonata No. 1, Op. 51, Joaquín Turina

04. Cello Sonata, Op. 50, Ernst Toch

05. Bunte Suite, Op. 48, Ernst Toch

06. Capriccio, Igor Stravinsky

07. Piano Piece Op. 33 (a), Arnold Schoenberg

08. Petite Suite, Op. 39, Albert Roussel

09. Piano Concerto in E major, Julius Röntgen

10. Prodigal Son, op. 46, Sergei Prokofiev

11. Rhapsody No. 1, Béla Bartók

12. String Quartet, Op. 89, Amy Beach

13. Rhapsody for String Quartet, Benjamin Britten

14. Rondo Veneziano, Ildebrando Pizzetti

15. Sinfonietta in F, Igor Markevitch

16. Symphony No. 2, Wilhelm Kempff

17. American Portraits, Roy Harris

18. Piano Concerto, Henry Cowell

19. Chôros No. 13, Heitor Villa-Lobos

20. Berceuse, Igor Stravinsky

Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.

Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

Need More Black History Month Resources?

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Civil Rights Movements: Then and Today

By Sarah Austin

Engage your students in having them draw important connections between the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s and contemporary grassroots movements taking place in the United States. This lesson will prompt students to analyze short documentary video clips that focus on six different contemporary grassroots movements:

1) Women’s March

2) Immigration

3) Standing Rock

4) Black Lives Matter

5) Climate Change

6) Teacher Strikes

With the corresponding video clips, students will fill out a provided T-chart that will identify the following aspects of each movement:

1) Desired Outcome/Changes

2) Group(s) involved

3) Strategies

4) Obstacle/Challenges

5) Questions

Hands-on activities: Two relevant, critical thinking activities follow that involve having students take their prior knowledge of the Civil Rights era (1950/60’s) and;

1. Using a Venn diagram, students will compare this time period with current day grassroots movements.

2. Each group will then discuss what issues are relevant and meaningful for them. Students will choose an issue that they wish to see change, and then as a group, will create a poster that promotes their cause.

Time frame for lesson:

  • 3-4 class periods (60 min) *If time is an issue; the teacher can choose from the six contemporary movements that he/she would like for their students to focus on.

Materials:

  • One 21 Slide Presentation
  • Detailed lesson plan
  • Digital Student Handouts:
  1. HANDOUT #1- PowerPoint T-Chart
  2. HANDOUT#2- Venn Diagram
  3. HANDOUT#3- Grading Rubrics
  4. HANDOUT #4- Rethinking schools blog: Making People’s History in Arizona: Educator’s Rise Up

*Note:

Students will have already learned about the Civil Rights era. This lesson serves as a critical thinking extension activity that encourages students to draw connections to contemporary grass roots movements & the Civil Rights movement.

Civil Rights Movement, current events, grassroots, racism, controversy, poster, Trump

Black History Month
Criminal Justice - Law
U.S. History
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