2nd Grade Black History Month Handouts

Students love learning about Duke Ellington's music because his work is innovative, creative, and groundbreaking! His unique blend of jazz, blues, and classical musical elements in addition to his use of lush orchestrations and extended improvisation make every Ellington piece a unique experience.

Ellington composed over two thousand pieces in his lifetime and each one offers something new, exciting, and memorable. It's easy to see why students are so passionate about learning and exploring the amazing music of Duke Ellington!

Did You Know?

• Edward Ellington was known as the "Duke" for his suave and classy demeanor.
• He received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1966.
• The "Duke" was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969.
• "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008.

Duke Ellington Classical Music Listening Activities

What’s Inside:

• Five-Star Rating Guide
• Composer Fact Sheet: Each composer fact sheet in this series includes fun, basic information – full name, birthplace, birth date, and more. One of the composer’s most popular compositions is also included. The fact sheet contains a place for writing fun facts or notes.
• Word Composer Activity: In the classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words. Add a timer for an extra challenge.
• Birthplace Fact Sheet: Use your favorite geographical resource to find the country’s language(s), leadership, traditional foods, and more! The historical name of some territories may have changed, but the most modern country is used for easy reference.
• Birthday Coloring Page: A fun coloring page repeats the composer’s birthday, and invites the artist to color in a special cupcake to celebrate the occasion.
• Composer Study Page: Students compile a short biographical page with the composer's full name, birthplace, instruments, and more!
• Composer Vocabulary A six-word vocabulary list that typically includes the composer’s name, birthplace, instrument, or other related terms. Space is provided to trace each term and the included handwriting paper can be used for additional practice.
• Full Writing Page
• Writing/Drawing Page
• Drawing Page
• Listening Activity Sheets Listening sheets include the title of a popular piece, the composer, a black & white composer to color in, and a space for drawing any scene that may come to mind when listening. There are additional options to identify the mood of a piece and indicate which instruments are playing.
• Weather Color & Listen Sheet: While listening to the selected piece, students can color in the weather elements they feel and hear.
• Emotions Color & Listen Sheet: Students color the character(s) that best identify their emotions while listening to the music.
• Emojis Color & Listen Sheet: Twelve emojis to choose from! Students choose the emoji faces that best match their feelings or impressions about the music.

★ Duke Ellington Classical Music Activities, Black History Month, April, Jazz

Printable Listening Sheets (four pages per piece!)

1. Take the 'A' Train
2. It Don't Mean a Thing
3. In a Sentimental Mood
4. I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart
5. Perdido
6. Rockin' in Rhythm
7. C-Jam Blues
8. Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue
9. Soda Fountain Rag
10. Harlem

Resource Contents:

Composer Fact Sheet - From the composer's birthplace to the instruments they've studied, this one-page reference sheet will make a great handout for your students.

Birthplace Guide - Add in some geographical research to discover more about where the composer was born! This page includes space for writing the capital, language, and even a popular food.

Listening Sheet - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more.

Weather & Feelings - Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

Printable Listening Sheet Sets Include:

1. It Don't Mean a Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing
2. In a Sentimental Mood
3. Take the 'A' Train
4. Mood Indigo
5. I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart
6. Perdido
7. Rockin' in Rhythm

★ BONUS FILE! Duke Ellington Carnival Listening Sheets (same music!)

These NEW activity sheets feature a carnival theme! Students can color their carnival while listening to this selection of Duke Ellington compositions!

Which carnival rides and activities would best fit a piece of music? Does the tempo feel like a roller coaster or a peaceful swing ride in the sky? Choose a tasty treat from the snack bar, then stop at the prize booth before finishing. There are no wrong answers!

Carnival Listening Sheets Include:

1. It Don't Mean a Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing
2. In a Sentimental Mood
3. Take the 'A' Train
4. Mood Indigo
5. I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart
6. Perdido
7. Rockin' in Rhythm
8. Soda Fountain Rag

Duke Ellington Word Search, April Activities, Black History Month

No Prep! Do you need engaging activities to accompany your Jazz unit or Duke Ellington composer studies? Students can search for Ellington-themed words in this 15x15 word grid. 15 words can be found up, down, or across! Answer key included.

Duke Ellington Composer Activities, Black History Month, Classical Music

Just print & play! Do you need engaging Duke Ellington activities or music sub plans? Each page offers creative ways for students to learn more about the classical compositions of Duke Ellington!

Resouce Includes:

1-page Resource Guide - This guide will get you started quickly! Just print and play.

Listening Sheet Star Rating Guides - A reference sheet illustrates the five-star rating system included in most listening sheets. Each frame has a description, with one being "okay" and 5 stars as "Wow!"

Listening Sheets - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more. There is a space for drawing and several non-musical elements to consider, such as animals and nature.

Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets

Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.

2 Biography Pages - Fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the composer's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes! A duplicate blank page is included for students to do their own research.

Composer Research Sheet - Students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country. Some of the research options include capital, continent, population, food, and more.

Composer Rating Activity - There are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to. This can also be used as a listening sheet or as a bulletin board display.

Word Composer Activity - In the classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their scores. Add a timer for an extra challenge.

Musical Selections (two pages per piece)

1. Take the 'A' Train
2. It Don't Mean a Thing
3. Mood Indigo
4. In a Sentimental Mood
5. Perdido
6. Rockin' in Rhythm
7. C-Jam Blues
8. Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue

Need More Black History Month Resources?

Share stories, create conversations, and spark a deeper appreciation for the arts all month (and all year) long! Explore ALL of the Black History Month composer packs, activities, and digital resources.

GROWING BUNDLE- As we grow- you get more!!! Close Reading Articles with biographical information.

This is a reading research newsletter bundle with-

- Misty Copeland

- Ruby Bridges

- Louis Armstrong

- Maya Angelou

- Jacob Lawrence

- Billie Holiday

All newsletters are biographical.

These are your curated gateway to the vibrant world of Black artists and their profound contributions to the arts. Designed especially for elementary school students, this kid-friendly research newsletter brings you fun and informative snapshots, engaging stories, and interesting facts about Black and African American artists and their creative brilliance.

Key Features:

1. Artist Spotlights: Explore concise profiles of Black artists across various disciplines – from visual arts and music to literature and performing arts. Gain a quick but comprehensive overview of their influential works and impact on the artistic landscape.

Research Templates

Product Description:

Are you a teacher looking for an engaging way to develop your students' research and presentation skills? Look no further! Our "Blank Research Report Template for Biographies" is the perfect tool to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and research skills in your classroom.

Two blank templates-

-One that is pre-filled with some of black artists' picture and name

-One that is blank and requires the student to write his name and draw thier portrait (can be used for any person)

Key Features:

1. Structured Framework: This template provides a well-organized and structured framework for students to conduct research on a chosen individual's biography. It guides them through essential components such as background, early life, accomplishments, and more.
2. Versatility: Tailor the template to fit the unique needs of your curriculum. Whether your focus is historical figures, contemporary leaders, or cultural icons, this template is adaptable to a variety of subjects.
3. Encourages Independent Learning: Empower students to take ownership of their learning journey. The blank spaces prompt students to conduct independent research, fostering a sense of curiosity and self-directed learning.
4. Develops Research Skills: Our template encourages students to utilize various research methods, including online resources, books, and interviews. It's a fantastic opportunity for them to hone their research skills and discern reliable information.
5. Promotes Presentation Skills: Beyond researching, students will practice organizing information coherently and presenting it in a well-structured report. This template lays the foundation for effective communication, a crucial skill in any academic or professional setting.

How It Works:

1. Choose a Subject: Students select an individual to research. This could be anyone from historical figures, scientists, artists, to contemporary leaders or influencers. Jacob Lawrence is pre-filled in on version of this template.
2. Fill in the Blanks: The template guides students through the research process. They'll fill in key sections, providing biographical information, accomplishments, and the impact of the chosen individual.
3. Present to the Class: The completed reports become the basis for engaging class presentations. This step encourages students to express themselves confidently and articulately.

Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Black History Month.

GROWING BUNDLE- As we grow- you get more!!! Close Reading Articles with biographical information.

This is a reading research newsletter bundle with-

- Jackie Robinson

- Misty Copeland

- Jesse Owens

- Simone Biles

- Serena Williams

- Roberto Clemente

- Pele

All newsletters are biographical.

These are your curated gateway to the vibrant world of Black artists and their profound contributions to the arts. Designed especially for elementary school students, this kid-friendly research newsletter brings you fun and informative snapshots, engaging stories, and interesting facts about Black and African American artists and their creative brilliance.

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

Key Features:

1. Athlete Spotlights: Explore concise profiles of Black athletes across various sports – from gymnastics to baseball. Gain a quick but comprehensive overview of their influential works and impact on the athletic landscape.

Research Templates

Product Description:

Are you a teacher looking for an engaging way to develop your students' research and presentation skills? Look no further! Our "Blank Research Report Template for Biographies" is the perfect tool to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and research skills in your classroom.

Two blank templates-

-One that is pre-filled with some of black athlete's picture and name

-One that is blank and requires the student to write his name and draw their portrait (can be used for any person)

Key Features:

1. Structured Framework: This template provides a well-organized and structured framework for students to conduct research on a chosen individual's biography. It guides them through essential components such as background, early life, accomplishments, and more.
2. Versatility: Tailor the template to fit the unique needs of your curriculum. Whether your focus is historical figures, contemporary leaders, or cultural icons, this template is adaptable to a variety of subjects.
3. Encourages Independent Learning: Empower students to take ownership of their learning journey. The blank spaces prompt students to conduct independent research, fostering a sense of curiosity and self-directed learning.
4. Develops Research Skills: Our template encourages students to utilize various research methods, including online resources, books, and interviews. It's a fantastic opportunity for them to hone their research skills and discern reliable information.
5. Promotes Presentation Skills: Beyond researching, students will practice organizing information coherently and presenting it in a well-structured report. This template lays the foundation for effective communication, a crucial skill in any academic or professional setting.

How It Works:

1. Choose a Subject: Students select an individual to research. This could be anyone from historical figures, scientists, artists, to contemporary leaders or influencers. Jacob Lawrence is pre-filled in on version of this template.
2. Fill in the Blanks: The template guides students through the research process. They'll fill in key sections, providing biographical information, accomplishments, and the impact of the chosen individual.
3. Present to the Class: The completed reports become the basis for engaging class presentations. This step encourages students to express themselves confidently and articulately.

Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Black History Month.

Are you looking for a way to ⭐️TEACH and INSPIRE⭐️ for Black History Month?

These are your curated gateway to the vibrant world of Black Changemakers and their profound contributions to the world. Perfect for a project for Black History Month! Designed especially for elementary school students, this kid-friendly research newsletter brings you fun and informative snapshots, engaging stories, and interesting facts about Black and African American changemakers and their creative brilliance. All newsletters are biographical.

This is a reading passage newsletter GROWING BUNDLE with-

- Misty Copeland

- Ruby Bridges

- Louis Armstrong

- Maya Angelou

- Jacob Lawrence

- Serena Williams

- Jackie Robinson

- Jesse Owens

- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

- Barack Obama

- Wangari Maathai

- Harriet Tubman

- Pelé

- Roberto Clemente

...and many more to come