Morehead State University

"How can song lyrics promote social justice? Nina Simone's 'Mississippi Goddam.'"

Grade Level at Time of Presentation

Senior

Major

Elementary Education MSD

Institution

Morehead State University

KY House District #

99

KY Senate District #

27

Department

Middle Grades/Secondary Education

Abstract

Our project explored the use of song lyrics as a primary source to launch a problems-based inquiry. We specifically researched Nina Simone’s song “Mississippi Goddam,” to explore Black Americans’ struggle for civil rights in America. Social studies standards require students to use inquiry to study pervasive social issues; however, many classroom teachers fear exploring controversial topics. Our research demonstrated inquiry that uses song lyrics as a primary source in order to engage in topics that are generally sensitive. Teachers can promote civil discourse and improve their students understanding of pervasive social issues through the careful planning and selection of primary sources which we demonstrated. Our poster showcases primary sources that help students answer the compelling question “How can song lyrics promote social justice? Nina Simone's ‘Mississippi Goddam.’” These primary sources highlight how Nina Simone used her song “Mississippi Goddam” to fight for black Americans’ rights during the civil rights movement. Students gain the opportunity to explore what was done during this time and to explore the current racial climate. This inquiry design helps teachers explore this controversial topic and others alike.

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"How can song lyrics promote social justice? Nina Simone's 'Mississippi Goddam.'"

Our project explored the use of song lyrics as a primary source to launch a problems-based inquiry. We specifically researched Nina Simone’s song “Mississippi Goddam,” to explore Black Americans’ struggle for civil rights in America. Social studies standards require students to use inquiry to study pervasive social issues; however, many classroom teachers fear exploring controversial topics. Our research demonstrated inquiry that uses song lyrics as a primary source in order to engage in topics that are generally sensitive. Teachers can promote civil discourse and improve their students understanding of pervasive social issues through the careful planning and selection of primary sources which we demonstrated. Our poster showcases primary sources that help students answer the compelling question “How can song lyrics promote social justice? Nina Simone's ‘Mississippi Goddam.’” These primary sources highlight how Nina Simone used her song “Mississippi Goddam” to fight for black Americans’ rights during the civil rights movement. Students gain the opportunity to explore what was done during this time and to explore the current racial climate. This inquiry design helps teachers explore this controversial topic and others alike.