Lesson Plan Title : African Chants

Age Range: Grade 6 through grade 8 (Middle School)

Overview and Purpose: In this lesson, students become familiar with the music of African chants. They study different chants, watch performers bring them to life, and then present their own chants to the class.

Objective: The student will be able to work with other students to learn and perform an African chant.

Resources:

Various African chants

Videos of people performing African chants

Activities:

Discuss with the students the history of African chants. Read through some of the chants together as a class and then watch videos of people performing them. Discuss any unfamiliar words or phrases and talk about the rhythm and cadence of the chants. Divide the students into small groups, have them choose a one that they would like to perform, and allow them time to practice it. Encourage them to use any instruments they believe are appropriate. When they feel comfortable with their performance, have them perform their chant for the class.

Wrap Up:

An extension of this activity would be to have students write their own chant. This could be completed individually or in small groups.