Apr. 29 - May 3, 2024

I Can statements/Learning Targets/Agenda: (not necessarily in this order)

I can listen to a book/lesson.

I can answer questions about the book/lesson.

I can take an Accelerated Reader quiz on the story (M/F only) OR complete an activity on the lesson.

I can read/preview books on Epic, MyOn, and/or the Southwood OPAC. 

Brain Breaks (as needed): I can move as directed. 

1. I.S.1 Interact with content presented by others. (share knowledge & ideas with others through discussion & listening; recognize that people have different opinions)

1. I.G.1 Continually seek knowledge. (read regularly for personal enjoyment & growth; actively participate in reading and learning communities)

2. IN.T.2 Adopt a discerning stance toward points of view and opinions expressed in information resources and learning products. (fact vs. opinion, author's opinion/perspective)

2. IN.T.3 Describe their understanding of cultural relevancy and placement within the global learning community. (listen to diverse texts in various genres to find out about self & the surrounding world; connect content w/one's own personal culture & experience; respect others' cultural identities)

5. E.T.1 Read widely and deeply in multiple formats and write and create for a variety of purposes. (routinely select picture, fiction & information books; explore new genres; recognize that different genres require different reading, listening, or viewing strategies; make connections between literature & personal experiences; select books at the appropriate reading level, to be read aloud, or challenging books for browsing & enjoyment; read, listen to, and view a range of resources for a variety of purposes)

This week, we will learn about Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington, an African American composer, pianist, and bandleader of jazz orchestras.  His career spanned over 50 years, leading his orchestra from 1923 until he died.  He is even featured on the back of the 2009 District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.) quarter!  Here's an excerpt about him from Biography.com:

"The ever-dignified Ellington espoused Black pride before it became a national movement.  Ellington was among the very first African American musicians to celebrate his race and proudly use the word “Black” in many of his song titles rather than stick to stereotypes or play it safe. Among the pieces that he wrote and recorded were “Creole Love Call (1927), ”Black And Tan Fantasy,” “Black Beauty” (1928), “When A Black Man’s Blue” (1930), “Black Butterfly” (1936) and his monumental “Black, Brown and Beige” suite (1943). In addition, in all of his film appearances, starting with the 1929 short Black and Tan, Ellington and his musicians looked and acted like distinguished artists rather than clowns or weak comedy relief." 

He was born April 29, 1899, and died May 24, 1974 at the age of  75.  If he were still alive today, he would be turning 125 this Monday.

All students (K-5) will view sections 1, 2, and 3 below.  The activity students do in section 4 will depend on their grade level.    :)

1. Images:

2. Listen to Duke Ellington & his band with these videos: 

(The longest video is only 3:44, but if you only listen to one video, let it be the second one, "It Don't Mean A Thing".)

3. Read Aloud:

4. Activity: