How to Write a Song About the Constitution
IGNITE!
Accessing Prior Knowledge
Discuss with a partner:
Materials
Rubric
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
Composition & Form | The sections or form of the song are not clearly identifiable. There is a weak connection between the title, and other parts of the song. The song is not the proper length. | The sections of the song is somewhat identifiable but doesn’t follow a traditional formula. There is limited link between the title, chorus, hook and theme of the song. The song is no longer than 3:20. | Clearly identifiable form such as verse, chorus, etc… that follows a traditional formula. There is a relationship between the title, chorus, hook and theme of the song. The song is no longer than 3:20. | Clearly identifiable sections such as verse, chorus, etc. which follows a traditional format with allowances for originality. There is a deep relationship between the title, chorus, hook and theme of the song. The song is no longer than 3:20. |
Lyrics | The lyrics are not about the Constitution and do not have a regular rhyme scheme or poetic pattern. There is no chorus/hook or the chorus is detached from the theme. | The lyrics are somewhat about the Constitution but the rhyme scheme or poetic pattern is inconsistent. The chorus/hook is not memorable. | The lyrics are focused on the Constitution. The rhyme scheme or poetic pattern is mostly consistent. The chorus/hook is memorable. | The lyrics are crafted to be about the Constitution and have an identifiable and consistent rhyme scheme or poetic pattern. The chorus/hook is impactful. |
Melody | Melody is either not original or the ideas are disorganized and do not match well with the lyrics in a cohesive way | The melody is somewhat organized, but not convincingly connected well with the lyrics. | The melody is original, well organized, understandable and integrates well with the lyrics in a harmonious manner. | The melody is original, well organized, convincing, understandable and integrates well with the lyrics in a harmonious manner. |
Aesthetic Appeal | The song is not interesting and is lacking in appeal. The Constitutional theme is not clear or greatly lacking and the song does not hold the listeners attention. There is no video along with the audio or there is only a still photo. The song is not engaging, and basically “blah.” | The song is moderately interesting and there is some evidence of a Constitutional theme, however the aesthetic impression is not very memorable or effective. The video is basic with not much variety. The song is somewhat inspiring. | The Constitutional theme, and musical elements contains entertaining musical ideas which make the overall effect memorable, enjoyable and effective. The video is well organized and visually pleasing.The song is clearly inspired and reflects strong effort. | The Constitutional theme, musical elements and originality prompt a strong aesthetic & memorable appeal which keeps the listener interested and engaged. The song gets your toes tapping, and makes you want to learn more about the Constitution. The video looks professionally done. The song is inspiring! |
CONSTITUTION REVIEW
TO DO: Recall and write all of the concepts & vocabulary you learned about the Constitution, including names, places, and excerpts from the Declaration & Constitution. Do not edit, just write!
Step 1: End Rhymes
Step 2: Application
EXEMPLARS:
Constitution Resolution Revolution
Liberty Free History
Independence Descendents Governance
All Call Hall
Government Document Amendment
Representative Live Give
Step 3: Organize your end rhymes by either
AABB or ABAB form.
EXEMPLAR:
USA
revolution
day
Constitution
USA
day
revolution
Constitution
A
A
B
B
A
B
A
B
OR
Watch this example of how to write a song in
3 minutes! You can write a song, too!
Step 4: Fill in your sentences. Use this form to help you write your lyrics. EXEMPLAR:
___________________________
___________________________
___________________________
___________________________
USA
day
revolution
Constitution
There’s no place greater than the
I’ll stand for freedom every
Were the basis for our
The principles of the American
End Rhymes
Fill in Sentences
EXEMPLAR #2
___________________________
___________________________
___________________________
___________________________
R.A.P.P.S.
chaps
hall
all
This is a song to remember
Written long ago by some awesome
Who signed our Declaration in Independence
So freedoms would be protected for
End rhymes
Step 5: Write 8 or 16 lines (verses) + a 4 line chorus. A “bridge” is optional.
Think about the “chorus” as the “hook.” Essentially, a chorus is the repeated section in a song that is usually the most memorable musical element that sticks with a listener.
Examples of famous “choruses” or “hooks”:
“All about that bass, ‘bout that bass”
“Let it Go, Let it Go”
“Because I’m happy”
“Shake it off”
Play video
Step 5 continued: Exemplar of a chorus (hook)
The Constitution is America’s solution
The Constitution is for all!
The Constitution is America’s solution
The Constitution is for all!
Step 6: Select a free backing track for your song and make up your melody. Use one of these or find your own! Do you play an instrument? Great! You can play your music on your instrument!
Final step: Record your song using a cell phone or computer.
Watch Video
What NOT to do:
Turn & talk with a neighbor & discuss!
“How do musicians generate creative ideas?”
RULES:
Would you like to apply for the song writing contest?
To apply for Constitution America’s contest and enter for a chance to win a scholarship and free mentor trip, click here:
https://constitutingamerica.org/enter/
The following slides are for the Teacher
How to write a song about the Constitution Lesson Plan
Click this link for the lesson plan document.
4. Content Standard: Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines.
Achievement Standard:
a. Create and arrange music to accompany readings or dramatizations
b. Create and arrange short songs and instrumental pieces within specified guidelines
c. Use a variety of sound sources when composing
Differentiation
Helping your students record
If you want to get fancy, there are several software options for creating a music video, like Vimeo or Animoto. Another option is to record using Zoom or GoogleMeet. The easiest way I have found to record a music video is to simply use my cell phone then upload the file to my laptop.
There’s also software that can remove background noise, like in the video below.
Photo Credits
Slide #3: Frederick & Joseph Douglass: https://nmaahc.si.edu/object/nmaahc_A2010.26.29.8.1
Slide #6: Constitution: https://billofrightsinstitute.org/primary-sources/constitution
Slide #12: James Madison: https://www.wsj.com/articles/james-madisons-critique-of-the-senate-still-holds-11663335204
Slide #12: Independence Hall: https://hc.edu/law-liberty/tour/
Slide #14: Singers: https://freepngimg.com/png/24209-singing-photo
Slide #14: Musical notes: https://creazilla.com/nodes/16601-musical-notes-music-border-clipart
Slide #18: Light bulb: https://stock.adobe.com/images/light-bulb-idea/76321573
Slide #19: Nafme Logo: https://nafme.org/publications-resources/standards/