In this lesson students will explore the power of music through the words of Ella Baker and the work Bernice Johnson Reagon. Students will first start with a Do Now image of Ella Baker to activate prior knowledge. From there, students will complete a Song Analysis Activity (see handout) of Ella’s song from Sweet Honey in the Rock or Resistance Revival Chorus. 

Finally, students will read an excerpt from an essay written by Bernice Johnson Reagon and the power of song. Students will be asked to make connections between the essay and Ella’s song.  

To conclude as an assessment, students will check in on the Courageous Conversation Compass and write a brief reflection on their learning.  

Guiding Question : How can music be used as a tool to liberate, connect, and strengthen resolve in the face of injustice?