Carole Boston Weatherford: Using Black Music & Children's Literature To Teach Social Justice

"The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip Hop" by Carole Boston Weatherford is a picture book that explores the origins and elements of Hip Hop culture. Here are some background knowledge ideas related to the book:

1. Hip-Hop Culture: Familiarize yourself with the cultural movement of Hip Hop and its significance in American and global music history. Learn about its roots in African American and Afro-Caribbean communities in the Bronx, New York, and its evolution as a multidimensional art form.

2. Four Pillars of Hip Hop: Understand the four essential elements or "pillars" of Hip Hop: MCing (rapping), DJing (turntablism), breakdancing (b-boying/b-girling), and graffiti art. Explore the history, techniques, and contributions of each pillar to the overall Hip Hop culture.

3. MCing and Rap: Dive into the art of MCing, which refers to the spoken-word performances and lyrical delivery in hip-hop. Explore the history of rap music, notable artists, and the role of storytelling and self-expression in this pillar of Hip Hop.

4. DJing and Turntablism: Explore the role of DJs in Hip Hop and the art of turntablism. Learn about the origins of DJing, the techniques used in mixing and scratching records, and the impact of DJs on the development and popularity of hip-hop music.

5. Breakdancing and B-boying/B-girling: Investigate the history and techniques of breakdancing, also known as b-boying or b-girling. Learn about the dance moves, acrobatics, and improvisation involved in this dynamic element of Hip Hop culture.

6. Graffiti Art: Discover the significance of graffiti art as a form of self-expression and visual storytelling within hip-hop culture. Explore the history, styles, and messages conveyed through graffiti art in urban environments.

7. Historical Context: Understand the socio-cultural and historical context in which Hip Hop culture emerged, including the challenges faced by marginalized communities in urban settings during the 1970s. Explore the connections between Hip Hop and social activism, as well as its role in giving voice to underrepresented communities.

8. Hip-Hop's Global Influence: Recognize the global impact of Hip Hop culture. Explore how Hip Hop has transcended borders, influenced diverse music genres, and become a powerful tool for cultural expression and social change worldwide.

9. Notable Hip-Hop Artists and Contributions: Research influential Hip Hop artists and their contributions to the genre. Explore the evolution of Hip Hop music, the emergence of different styles, and the ways in which artists have used their music to address social issues and promote positive change.

10. Contemporary Hip-Hop: Stay updated on current trends and developments in Hip Hop culture. Explore the work of contemporary Hip Hop artists, the influence of technology and digital media, and the ongoing evolution of Hip Hop as an artistic and cultural force.

11. The influence of Hip Hop on fashion, language, and popular culture: The music genre originating in the Bronx during the 1970s shaped trends, introducing new vernacular and redefining societal norms through its powerful artistic expression.

12. The role of storytelling and narrative in Hip Hop lyrics: MCs use their verses to chronicle personal experiences, social issues, and cultural narratives, allowing listeners to connect with their stories on a deeper level and making Hip Hop a compelling medium for cultural expression.

13. The portrayal of hip hop in media and popular perception: characterized by both celebration and controversy, with mainstream media often focusing on stereotypes and sensationalism while overlooking the genre's artistic depth, social commentary, and positive impact on communities, leading to a complex and nuanced understanding of hip hop within the public consciousness.

14. The globalization and spread of Hip Hop culture to different parts of the world:  Driven by its infectious beats, powerful lyrics, and universal themes, transcending geographical boundaries and resonating with diverse audiences who have embraced and adapted the genre, giving rise to unique regional variations while maintaining its core elements.

15. Women in Hip Hop: Women have made significant contributions to the world of hip-hop as artists, DJs, producers, and activists since the genre's inception in the 1970s. However, they have often been underrepresented and faced systemic sexism and marginalization within the industry. Despite breaking barriers and defying stereotypes, their talents are frequently overshadowed or undermined, resulting in a persistent struggle for recognition as professionals.

Primary Questions

• Who is the author of the book "The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip Hop"?

• What are the four pillars of Hip Hop mentioned in the book?

• Can you name one of the pillars of Hip Hop and explain what it represents?

• What is the significance of the title "16 Bars" in relation to Hip Hop music?

• What are some of the elements that make up the culture of Hip Hop?

• How does the author describe the connection between rap music and the four pillars of Hip Hop?

• Can you name one famous Hip Hop artist mentioned in the book?

• How does the book explore the history and evolution of Hip Hop music?

• What is the main message or theme conveyed in "The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip Hop"?

• Can you name any Hip Hop songs that celebrate or empower women? How do these songs make you feel?

• Who were Langston Hughes and Paul Lawrence Dunbar? What could be their connection to Hip Hop?

• What was the literary genre that both Langston Hughes and Paul Lawrence Dunbar are known for?

• Learn and discuss a poem from Langston Hughes and Paul Lawrence Dunbar.

Secondary Questions
 

• What is Hip Hop culture?
• How does the author, Carole Boston Weatherford, describe the book's four pillars of hip hop?
• Explain the significance of the title "16 Bars" in relation to the book's focus on Hip Hop.
• What key historical and cultural aspects of Hip Hop are explored in the book?
• Describe the role of each of the four pillars (MCing, DJing, graffiti art, and breakdancing) in the development of Hip Hop culture.
• What stereotypes or misconceptions about women in Hip Hop that you have encountered? How can we challenge or change those perceptions?
• How does the author depict the impact of Hip Hop on social change?
• What are some examples of influential Hip Hop artists or pioneers mentioned in the book?
• How does "The Roots of Rap" showcase the evolution of Hip Hop from its origins to its present-day influence?
• Discuss the book's representation of Hip Hop as a form of self-expression and empowerment.
• Analyze the use of illustrations and text in "The Roots of Rap" and explain how they contribute to the overall understanding and appreciation of Hip Hop culture.
• What common themes can be found in the works of both Langston Hughes,  Paul Lawrence Dunbar, and Hip Hop?
• Compare and contrast the writing styles of Langston Hughes and Paul Lawrence Dunbar.

Extension questions to ask students about R&B music's influence with Hip Hop:

1. What is rhythm & blues (R&B) music, and how did it influence the development of Hip Hop?
2. Who were some of the key R&B artists or groups that had a significant impact on the early Hip Hop scene?
3. How did R&B music contribute to the creation of Hip Hop's distinctive sound and style?
4. Can you identify any specific R&B songs or samples that have been widely used in Hip Hop tracks?
5. In what ways did R&B artists and their performances influence the fashion and visual aesthetics of Hip Hop culture?
6. How did the themes and lyrical content of R&B songs influence the subject matter and storytelling in Hip Hop lyrics?
7. Can you describe any specific examples of collaboration or crossover between R&B singers and Hip Hop artists?
8. What role did R&B radio stations and DJs play in promoting both R&B and Hip Hop music?
9. How has the influence of R&B on hip hop evolved over time, and are there any current artists who continue to bridge these genres?
10. In your opinion, what are some of the most significant ways in which R&B has impacted the development and popularity of Hip Hop music?

Extension questions to ask students about the impact of Hip Hop internationally.

• In what ways do international Hip Hop artists incorporate their own cultural influences into their music and performances?
• Can you think of any specific instances where Hip Hop has been used as a tool for social or political activism in a different country?
• How do you think the international popularity of Hip Hop has contributed to breaking down cultural barriers and fostering cross-cultural understanding?
• Have you ever encountered Hip Hop music or artists from a different country or culture? How did it impact your perception of Hip Hop as a global phenomenon?

• How does Hip Hop serve as a platform for artists to express their thoughts and opinions about social justice and inequality?
• Identify any specific examples of Hip Hop artists using their music to raise awareness about social or political issues.
• In what ways does hip hop, as portrayed in the book, provide a voice for marginalized communities and shine a light on their struggles?
• How does Hip Hop music empower individuals and communities to take action and advocate for social change?
• Have you ever connected with a Hip Hop song or artist that addressed social or political issues? Who was the artist or group and song? Explain how the song made you feel.
• What can we learn from the social and political context of Hip Hop songs and music regarding the historical and current challenges faced by different communities?
• How can the social and political messages in Hip Hop inspire dialogue and foster understanding among people from diverse backgrounds?
• How can we use the insights gained from hip hop's social and political content to promote positive change and create a more equitable society?
• How did the illustrations by Frank Morrison help you connect with the information conveyed about hip-hop culture? Explain with specific examples.
• Are there any particular lyrics or verses in Hip Hip that resonated with you emotionally? Why?
• Reflecting on the book, how do you think Hip Hop music and culture have influenced the experiences of people in different communities?
• In what ways can the messages of resilience and self-expression in Hip Hop music and culture impact social change?
• How has Hip Hop served as a platform for artists to express their thoughts and opinions about social justice and inequality?
• How did Hip Hop music empower individuals and communities to take action and advocate for social change?
• How can the social and political messages in Hip Hop inspire dialogue and foster understanding among people from diverse backgrounds?

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Disclaimer: Some of the music in this compilation may be offensive to some readers and/or inappropriate for children. Please listen and examine the lyrics.

Here are some activities based on "The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip Hop" by Carole Boston Weatherford:

English & Language Arts

• Hip Hop History Museum: Transform your classroom into a Hip Hop history museum. Assign students different aspects of Hip Hop culture to research, such as fashion, music, dance, or graffiti. They can create displays, posters, or interactive exhibits showcasing their findings. Encourage students to be creative and include multimedia elements like audio clips or videos to immerse visitors in the world of Hip Hop.
• Spoken Word Poetry: Explore the poetic elements of rap lyrics and spoken word poetry. Discuss the themes and emotions conveyed in the book and the power of words as a form of self-expression. Provide prompts or topics related to personal experiences, identity, or social issues, and ask students to write and perform their own spoken word poetry. They can use rhythm, rhyme, and powerful imagery to captivate the audience.
• Music Video Analysis: Discuss the visual storytelling and creative elements used in music videos. Divide students into small groups and assign them a Hip Hop song. They can create storyboards, plan and film their own music videos using cameras or smartphones. Encourage them to consider lighting, choreography, settings, and costumes to enhance the visual representation of the music.

• Rap Battle Poetry: Organize a classroom rap battle where students take turns writing and performing their own rap verses. This activity helps students develop their writing skills while fostering creativity, rhythm, and wordplay.

• Hip Hop News Article: Assign students to write a news article about a significant event or influential figure in the history of hip hop. They can research and report on the impact of that event or person, providing background information and capturing the essence of hip hop culture.
• Hip Hop Album Review: Have students listen to a hip hop album of their choice and write a review. They can analyze the production, lyrics, themes, and overall impact of the album, supporting their opinions with evidence and examples.
• Hip Hop Interview: Ask students to imagine they are interviewing a famous hip hop artist or producer. They can create a list of questions and then write a dialogue-based interview, focusing on the artist's influences, creative process, and the social and cultural impact of their work.
• Hip Hop Social Commentary Essay: Assign students to write an essay discussing the role of hip hop as a platform for social commentary. They can explore how hip hop addresses social issues, advocates for change, and represents the voices of marginalized communities.
• Hip Hop Cultural Analysis: Assign students to research and write an essay on the cultural significance of hip hop, examining its origins, evolution, impact on fashion, language, and popular culture, and its role in empowering and giving voice to communities.

Social Studies

• Four Pillars of Hip Hop: Introduce the four pillars of hip hop mentioned in the book (MCing, DJing, Graffiti Art, Breakdancing) and assign each pillar to a small group of students. Ask them to research and prepare a short presentation or poster explaining the history, elements, and significance of their assigned pillar. Have the groups present their findings to the class, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of Hip Hop culture
• Hip Hop and Social Issues Discussion: Engage students in a discussion about social and political issues. Explore themes such as racial inequality, social justice, and the power of music as a form of protest and advocacy. Encourage students to share their thoughts, opinions, and personal connections to the topics discussed.
• Lyric Analysis: Select a few rap songs that address social or political issues and provide the lyrics to the students. Ask them to analyze the lyrics, identify the key messages, and discuss the artist's intentions. Students can examine the use of metaphors, wordplay, and storytelling in the lyrics and reflect on how these elements contribute to the social commentary conveyed.
• Rap as Poetry: Discuss the similarities between rap and poetry. Have students analyze rap lyrics as poetry, examining the use of rhythm, rhyme, and imagery. Ask them to write their own rap verses or poems that address social or political topics of their choice. Students can then perform their creations in front of the class or participate in a poetry slam event.
• Hip Hop Activism Project: Divide students into small groups and assign each group a social or political issue to focus on (e.g., climate change, racial equality, poverty). Instruct them to create a Hip Hop-inspired activism project that raises awareness about their chosen issue. This can include writing and recording a rap song, producing a music video, or designing awareness campaigns using visual art and multimedia. Students can present their projects to the class or organize an event to showcase their work.
• Hip Hop Timeline of Activism: Create a timeline of influential Hip Hop songs, albums, and artists that address social and political issues. Assign students different songs or artists to research, and have them present their findings, including the historical context, themes, and impact of the chosen works. Discuss the ways in which Hip Hop has been used as a platform for social and political activism over the years.
• Hip Hop and Media Analysis: Explore the portrayal of Hip Hop culture in media and discuss how it intersects with social and political issues. Show examples of news articles, music videos, or movies that depict hip hop, and encourage students to analyze the representations and messages conveyed critically. Discuss media stereotypes, cultural appropriation, and the power dynamics at play.
• Hip Hop Economics: Explore the economic aspects of hip hop as an industry. Discuss topics such as revenue streams, marketing strategies, and entrepreneurial opportunities within the music business. Have students analyze the financial success of Hip Hop artists and the economic impact of their ventures. They can create business plans for a hypothetical Hip Hop artist, considering factors such as production costs, pricing, and revenue projections.

• Hip Hop Social Media Campaign: Challenge students to create a social media campaign promoting positive messages or raising awareness about social issues using hip hop. They can create content for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter, including images, videos, and captions that reflect the values and culture of hip hop.

Science

• Physics of Sound and Acoustics: Explore the science behind sound and acoustics in Hip Hop music. Discuss topics such as frequency, amplitude, and resonance. Conduct experiments to demonstrate the principles of sound waves and how they interact with different surfaces and materials. 

Math

• Data Analysis and Song Popularity: Use Hip Hop music charts and streaming platforms as data sources. Have students collect and analyze data on song popularity, streaming numbers, or album sales. They can create graphs, charts, and statistical analyses to identify trends and patterns within the Hip Hop genre. Students can also explore the impact of digital technology on the music industry and discuss the implications for artists and consumers.
• Hip Hop and Social Media Analytics: Analyze the role of social media in Hip Hoppromotion and engagement. Discuss metrics such as likes, shares, and followers and their impact on artists' visibility and success. Have students research and compare different social media platforms and their analytics tools. They can analyze data and trends to identify effective strategies for building an online presence and engaging with a target audience.
• Have students explore the mathematical patterns and rhythms in hip hop beats. They can identify and analyze patterns in the drum patterns or count the number of beats in a measure.
• Rap Word Problems: Create word problems that incorporate hip hop themes or scenarios. For example, students can calculate the cost of concert tickets, determine the total revenue from album sales, or solve problems involving beats per minute.
• Hip Hop Money Management: Introduce financial literacy through hip hop by having students create budgets for hypothetical hip hop artists. They can calculate expenses, income from album sales and performances, and determine how much money is left for saving or investing.
• Hip Hop Infographics: Ask students to design infographics that visually represent information and data related to hip hop. They can explore topics such as the history of hip hop, the four pillars of hip hop, influential artists, or the global reach of hip hop. Tools like Piktochart or Canva can be used to create visually appealing infographics.

The Arts

• Rap Rhyme Time: Explore the rhythm and rhyme in rap music with a fun activity. Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a different topic (e.g., animals, food, school). Challenge them to create their own rap verses using the assigned topic. Encourage students to incorporate elements of rhythm, rhyme, and wordplay. Each group can perform their rap for the class, showcasing their creativity and understanding of rap's musicality.
• Hip Hop Hero Profiles: Have students research and create profiles of influential Hip Hop artists mentioned in the book, such as Grandmaster Flash, DJ Kool Herc, or Run-DMC. Each student or group can choose an artist and gather information about their contributions, impact, and unique style. Students can create posters, digital presentations, or short biographies to share with the class, highlighting the diversity and creativity within Hip Hop.
• Elements of Graffiti Art: Discuss the graffiti art element of hip hop mentioned in the book. Provide materials like markers, colored pencils, or digital art tools, and have students design their own graffiti-inspired artwork. They can explore different lettering styles, use vibrant colors, and incorporate symbols or images that represent Hip Hop culture. Display the artwork in the classroom or create a digital gallery to showcase students' creativity.
• Hip Hop Dance Workshop: Organize a Hip Hop dance workshop where students can learn some basic breakdancing moves. You can invite a guest instructor, local crew, or use online tutorials. Students can form dance crews and create their own routines to perform at a school event or during a class showcase.
• Dance and Kinesthetic Learning: Incorporate Hip Hop dance into physical education or science classes. Teach students basic breakdancing moves and discuss the physics behind balancing, spinning, and body control. Students can explore concepts such as momentum, force, and inertia while engaging in physical activity and creative expression.
• Graffiti Art Exploration: Discuss the connection between Hip Hop culture and graffiti art. Introduce students to different graffiti styles, techniques, and artists. Explore the cultural and historical significance of graffiti as a form of self-expression. Have students create their own graffiti-inspired artwork using markers, spray paint, or digital design tools. They can experiment with lettering styles, colors, and imagery that reflect Hip Hop culture.
• Album Cover Design: Explore the art of album cover design in hip hop. Discuss iconic album covers and their visual impact on the audience. Have students choose a Hip Hop artist or create their own fictional artist. They can design album covers that represent the artist's style, music, and persona. Encourage students to use various art mediums such as drawing, painting, collage, or digital art tools.
• Hip Hop Fashion Design: Discuss the influence of Hip Hop on fashion trends and personal style. Have students research the evolution of Hip Hop fashion and the impact of influential artists. Ask them to design their own Hip Hop-inspired fashion line or create mood boards showcasing different Hip Hop fashion elements. Students can sketch outfits and incorporate patterns, fabrics, and accessories that reflect the vibrant and diverse styles within Hip Hop culture.
• Collage Art and Hip Hop Icons: Introduce students to significant figures in hip hop, such as artists, producers, or activists. Have students create collages featuring these Hip Hop icons using magazines, newspapers, or digital collage tools. They can include images, quotes, lyrics, and symbols associated with each figure. Students can present their collages and share the significance of the chosen icons within Hip Hop culture.

Multimedia Activities

• Hip Hop Documentary Viewing and Discussion: Show students a documentary or film that explores the social and political impact of Hip Hop culture. Afterward, facilitate a class discussion about the issues raised in the documentary, the role of Hip Hop in activism, and the potential for music and art to drive social change. Encourage students to express their opinions and engage in respectful dialogue.
• Hip Hop Music Video Creation: Encourage students to create their own Hip Hop music videos. They can write original lyrics or choose an existing Hip Hop song and film a video that incorporates choreography, storytelling, and visual elements that align with the song's message.
• Hip Hop Podcasting: Assign students to create and produce Hip Hop-themed podcasts. They can explore different topics such as the elements of Hip Hop, interviews with local Hip Hop artists, or discussions on the social impact of Hip Hop. Students can incorporate music, interviews, sound effects, and narration into their podcasts.
• Hip Hop Fashion Lookbook: Have students research and create digital lookbooks showcasing the fashion trends and styles associated with Hip Hop culture. They can curate images, create descriptions, and present their lookbooks using multimedia tools like Canva, Adobe Spark, or PowerPoint.

Starting as a graffiti artist, Frank Morrison is a highly acclaimed children's book illustrator known for his captivating and vibrant artwork. With his incredible talent, he brings stories to life, captivating young readers with his dynamic illustrations. The importance of illustrations in picture books cannot be overstated, as they serve as visual companions to the text, stimulating children's imaginations and helping them make sense of the narrative. Morrison's illustrations not only enhance the storytelling experience but also provide a valuable tool for young readers to develop their visual literacy and engage with the book on a deeper level.

Visual Literacy

• Discuss the artistic choices Frank Morrison made in "The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop." How do these choices enhance the visual storytelling experience and engage the reader?
• How do the illustrations in "The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop" capture the movement and rhythm of hip-hop music and dance?
• Analyze the cover of "The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop." How do the visual elements on the cover reflect the theme and content of the book?
• How do the illustrations in "The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop" enhance the reader's understanding and appreciation of the history and culture of hip-hop?
• Imagine you are designing a new illustration for a page in "The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop." What visual elements would you include, and how would they contribute to the overall narrative of the book?
• Imagine you are curating an exhibition about the history and impact of hip-hop. Which illustrations from "The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop" would you include, and how would they contribute to the exhibition's visual narrative?