Protest songs

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• havo
• Leerjaar 5

War protest songs

What do you know about
protest songs?

Lesson aims

• Pupils can understand the words and metaphors used in relation to war and politics.

• Pupils can understand the historical context and impact of protest songs.

• Pupils are able to deduce meaning from song lyrics.

What do you know about the Vietnam war?

Vietnam war intro

Vietnam was the longest war in American history and the most unpopular American war of the 20th century. It resulted in nearly 60,000 American deaths and in an estimated 2 million Vietnamese deaths. 

In January 1973, an agreement was reached; U.S. forces were withdrawn from Vietnam

So why write protest songs?

Why protest songs?

Protest music is music that aims to send social messages and make a change (associated with a movement for social change or other current events through music). Often using the popularity of the artist to bring more attention to a particular issue.

Discussion

First thoughts?

What do you think of the title?

What line sticks out with you and why?

01:22

"War machine keeps turning" What does that mean?

01:52

What do they mean with "War Pigs" ?

Discussion

First thoughts?

Who are the Fortunate sons?

"It ain't me" what do they mean?

00:42

Why is the senator's son important?

00:32

"old enough to kill, but not for voting"
Why is that important?

Discussion

First thoughts?

What does he mean with Eve of destruction?

What are the main themes in this song?

Homework

If you wanted to write a protest song, what would it be about?

Write down your main idea for your protest song. 

What would you protest and why?

Also include atleast 10 lines to your song.

Use the handout on Itslearning.