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TURN IT UP/TURN IT DOWN
Vulgar lyrics and behavior sometimes associated with hip hop make teachers hesitant to introduce it as a teaching tool in the classroom. These 5 simple steps can help alleviate such concerns:
1. Review media first.
Never introduce media -- songs, films or books -- into the classroom without reviewing them first. At i-Tunes, where you can preview songs for free and download full songs for just $.99, you won't have to invest a fortune finding the right songs for your classroom.
2. Research lyrics online.
Some lyrical content and styles of delivery are complex. A simple Google search most often can locate transcribed lyrics for you.
3. Decode terminology.
Hip hop culture includes its own vocabulary. Familiarize yourself with PBS' Hip Hop Glossary, and ask students to teach you the latest terms.
4. Avoid the obvious.
Today, record companies identify problematic lyrics with "Explicit Lyrics" labels, and, while such notices can help, they are not a sure-fire way of avoiding problematic content. Foul language, sexist descriptions of women, stereotypical treatment of racial or ethnic groups and homophobic content are obvious no-nos, unless you're engaged in a media literacy activity with older students.
5. Embrace the positive.
Children likely have heard the negative side of hip hop. Use this opportunity to show them the positives.
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