RECN Equity Team

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Lift up your eyes and see the why!
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Save the dates: February 6th and 7th
RECN Equity Conference 7.0

😡

The NEA-LGBTQ+ Caucus posted a statement against this administration's actions towards marginalized people... Check it out.

H/t Iman Cassells Alleyne

** UPDATE by Iman: PDF https://www.kindacademy.org/product-page/kind-litstudies-analyzing-kendrick-lamar-s-halftime-performance



LitStudies Lesson Plan: Analyzing Symbolism and Figurative Language in Kendrick Lamar’s Halftime Performance

Age: 10+
Subject: English Language Arts
Duration: 60–90 minutes
Theme: Music as Literature – Symbolism, Figurative Language, and Social Commentary
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Objective:

By the end of this lesson, students will:

1. Understand and analyze how Kendrick Lamar uses symbolism to convey meaning in his performance.

2. Identify examples of figurative language (metaphors, similes, repetition, symbolism) in lyrics.

3. Apply critical thinking skills to explore the cultural significance of his work.

4. Create original works that incorporate figurative language and symbolism.

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Lesson Breakdown:

1. Introduction to Symbolism and Figurative Language (10 Minutes)

Mini-Lesson: Define figurative language (metaphor, simile, symbolism, repetition) and symbolism as the use of objects, words, or actions to represent abstract ideas.

Examples:

Metaphor: “I got loyalty, got royalty inside my DNA” – This line compares one’s heritage to royalty, symbolizing strength and pride.

Symbolism: Chains or shackles – Represent historical oppression and the fight for freedom.

Repetition: “We gon’ be alright” – Emphasizes resilience and collective strength.

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2. Watch the Performance (15 Minutes)

Set the Context:
Before watching, tell students to focus on repeated images, colors, and lyrics.

Guiding Questions:

What symbols or repeated imagery do you notice?

How does Kendrick’s use of visuals connect to the meaning of the performance?

Show the video or key excerpts from Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance.

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3. Guided Analysis (20 Minutes)

Teacher-Led Discussion:
Break down specific symbols and figurative language used in the performance.

The color red: Often symbolizes struggle, power, or sacrifice.

Marching formation: Unity, discipline, and protest.

Lyrics like “We gon’ be alright”: A powerful statement of survival and hope, rooted in the Black experience.

Group Work:
In pairs, students analyze a portion of the lyrics (provided in the handout) and find examples of figurative language and symbolism.

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4. Critical Thinking and Discussion (15 Minutes)

Discussion Questions:

What do you think Kendrick Lamar wants his audience to feel or think?

How do the symbols and lyrics relate to current social issues?

Why is it important for artists to use their platform to address serious topics?

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5. Creative Application (20 Minutes)

Activity: Create Your Own Symbolic Expression
Option 1: Write a short poem that includes at least two examples of figurative language (metaphor, simile, or symbolism) to express a personal message.
Option 2: Design a visual symbol (drawing, collage, or digital image) that represents a theme we discussed. Write a short paragraph explaining your design.

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Wrap-Up Discussion (5 Minutes):

Students share their creative work in small groups.

Reflection Prompt: "How does understanding symbolism and figurative language change the way you experience art and music?"

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Homework/Extension Activity:

Option 1: Research another artist who uses symbolism and write a short paragraph explaining one of their works.
Option 2: Write a reflection on how music can inspire change in the world.

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Assessment:

Class Participation: Engaging in discussions and group work.

Analysis Activity: Accurate identification of figurative language and symbolism in lyrics.

Creative Response: Effort, creativity, and thoughtfulness in the poem or visual symbol project

Standards Addressed:

Reading Standards for Literature:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.6.4 / RL.8.4 / RL.9-10.4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.6.7 / RL.8.7 / RL.9-10.7: Analyze the representation of a subject in different mediums (e.g., a performance and its lyrics), noting how the delivery affects the message.

Speaking and Listening Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.6.1 / SL.8.1 / SL.9-10.1: Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade-level topics, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.6.2 / SL.9-10.2: Interpret information presented in diverse media and formats and explain how it contributes to a topic, text, or issue under study.

Writing Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1 / W.8.1 / W.9-10.1: Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.9 / W.9-10.9: Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

The Renton School District will be hosting its first Showcase of Careers on November 5, 2024 from 10am-1pm at the IKEA Performing Arts Center 400 South Second Street, Renton, WA 98057 (next to and/or attached to Renton High School)

This is an opportunity for prospective applicants to meet with schools and departments, throughout our District, all under one roof.

It is also an opportunity for prospective applicants to:

➡️meet 1:1 with leaders and District personnel
➡️learn about available opportunities in our District
➡️and more!

❓Have you shared this opportunity with prospective applicants in your network? If not, you should!
❓Have you shared this opportunity with other people you may have in your network?
✔️We want as many interested applicants, who desire to work for a District's whose core values are grounded in Service, Excellence, and Equity to attend!

PLEASE SHARE BROADLY! We want as many people who are seeking employment opportunities to come and see what the Renton School District has to offer!

BIPOC Educators:

You are invited to: The Convening
See schedule and content for the 2-day Convening:
Journey Towards Liberation

Clock hours are available for the keynote and all breakout sessions. Please contact [email protected] to access.

Please pre-register for your preferred breakout sessions. Link will be provided after your Convening registration.

Friday, February 23, 2024 @ UW

READ MORE & REGISTER HERE:

https://nwewconvening.techaccess.org/conveninghome/agenda-2024/

Agenda - NWEW Convening AGENDA REGISTER TODAY The Convening Agenda See schedule and content for the 2-day Convening: Journey Towards Liberation Clock hours are available for the keynote and all breakout sessions. Please contact …

Read about the diverse ways Lunar New Year 🧧 🐉🐲 is celebrated by families and communities in this blog. Happy Lunar New Year to all those who celebrate! 🎊 ♥️

Heralding in the Year of the Dragon, the Asian Interest Forum has written their newest blog sharing the diverse ways in which families and communities celebrate Lunar New Year! https://www.naeyc.org/resources/blog/new-year-global-celebration-2024