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More than “just words” If you have expressed concerns about what you believe to be a negative message from your students’ favorite musicians, then you have probably heard them fire back, “I don’t know why you have to get so worked up about the music I listen to. It’s just entertainment and the musicians don’t mean anything by it…….it’s JUST WORDS!”
But when that sweet bundle of sunshine finds a positive message in one verse, from one song, they come heralding a proclamation, “Listen to this ONE song. They really do care about society and encourage right behavior. They said “DRUGS ARE REALLY BAD!””
Gently remind your students that while you may seem like an old geezer in their eyes, your baloney detector is still in functional condition.
Kids can’t have it both ways. Music and video can’t be “just entertainment” or “just words” when the message and images are negative, and then become magically “inspiring and virtuous” when the messages are positive. Music and video have the power to convey BOTH positive and negative messages!
These confrontations do not have to be fraught with peril. These situations can provide teachers with incredible opportunities to connect with students regarding things that are important to students. It is also a perfect occasion to challenge them to think critically about not only their music and media choices, but also about life choices that may affect their reputation and character.
š What are the goals of a particular song or video? Does it affect your emotions? Imagination? How? š Do you feel emotionally connected with your favorite song or musician? In what way? š Have you ever wondered what it would be like to meet your favorite musician? |
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š Do you think he/she would be just as excited to meet you? Why or why not? š Is it possible that you might be disappointed that they just don’t feel the same way about you as you do about them? š Is there a rebellion against authority in your favorite music? Is it legitimate or centered on your desire to create controversy? š What emphasis is placed on money as THE mark of success in today’s music and videos? š Does the way that you dress have anything at all to say about the music you listen to? š Does the lifestyle portrayed in your favorite music and videos seem to correspond with reality? š What does your favorite music have to say about dating, drugs, violence, sex, and relationships? š How does your favorite music view authority figures? š Have you ever been to a concert? Have you noticed the power that the lead singer has over the audience? Why do you think that is so? š When someone attacks your music, does it feel like they attacked you personally?
George can be reached for student, parent and educator programs at: American Center for Character and Cultural Education: info@straightroads.org 1600 Laurel Rd Ambridge PA 15003 |
