We Are the Freedom Riders

Here’s a great opportunity for music teachers and Social Studies teachers to collaborate in presenting this powerful lesson on the freedom riders of the Civil Rights era. Objectives on the Social Studies side ask students to recognize the power that individual and group actions have in changing society and taking responsibility in a democracy. The music teacher can help students understand the power of music itself in history by examining the seminal Civil Rights anthem, “We Shall Overcome.” Use the Music Analysis sheet to help students understand the song before they write additional lyrics for present day. The lesson plan provides ample direction on how to make this a powerful exploration of the activists in the fight for civil rights.

courtesy of Knovation