Lesson 1: Introduction to Cotton Eye Joe
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Resources Needed: Computer with internet access, projector, speakers, printed lyrics of "Cotton Eye Joe"
Introduction: (10 minutes)
  • Begin by asking the students if they have heard of the song "Cotton Eye Joe".
  • Play the song "Cotton Eye Joe" by Rednex for the class.
Development: (25 minutes)
  • Discuss where and when the song was released (1994).
  • Explain why the song became popular, highlighting its catchy beat and danceable rhythm.
  • Show a short video clip or use a presentation to illustrate the popularity of the song in the 90s.
Conclusion: (5 minutes)
  • Recap the key points about the release and popularity of "Cotton Eye Joe".
  • Ask a few students to share what they found most interesting.
Assessment:
  • Students can write a short paragraph about why they think the song became popular.
Lesson 2: Exploring Rednex
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Resources Needed: Computer with internet access, projector, printed information about Rednex
Introduction: (10 minutes)
  • Recap the song from the previous lesson.
  • Introduce the band Rednex and show a picture of the band members.
Development: (25 minutes)
  • Discuss the origins of Rednex and their contributions to music and culture.
  • Highlight some of their other popular songs and albums.
  • Engage students in a discussion about how the band's music influenced the 90s culture.
Conclusion: (5 minutes)
  • Summarize the band's impact on society and culture.
Assessment:
  • Students can create a small poster about Rednex and their contributions.
Lesson 3: Learning the Lyrics
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Resources Needed: Printed lyrics of "Cotton Eye Joe", highlighters, audio recording of the song
Introduction: (5 minutes)
  • Review the song and its significance.
  • Distribute printed lyrics to all students.
Development: (30 minutes)
  • Play the song and have students follow along with the lyrics.
  • Pause the song at intervals to discuss the meaning of the lyrics and any unfamiliar words.
  • Encourage students to highlight repeating lines or phrases.
  • Practice singing the song together as a class.
Conclusion: (5 minutes)
  • Recap the key parts of the lyrics and their meanings.
Assessment:
  • Students can sing the song in small groups to demonstrate their understanding of the lyrics.
Lesson 4: Rednex Timeline
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Resources Needed: Timeline templates, markers, printed information about Rednex's career
Introduction: (5 minutes)
  • Recap key points about Rednex from previous lessons.
  • Explain the concept of a timeline.
Development: (30 minutes)
  • Provide students with a template for the timeline and printed information about Rednex's career.
  • Guide students in identifying key events and dates in the band's career.
  • Have students write these events on their timelines and decorate them with illustrations.
Conclusion: (5 minutes)
  • Allow students to share their timelines with the class.
Assessment:
  • Evaluate the timelines based on accuracy and completeness of information.
Lesson 5: Preparing for Performance
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Resources Needed: Printed lyrics of "Cotton Eye Joe", audio recording of the song, optional costumes or props
Introduction: (5 minutes)
  • Review the lyrics and previous singing practice.
Development: (30 minutes)
  • Divide the class into small groups for practicing different parts of the song.
  • Encourage students to add simple dance moves or actions to their performance.
  • Provide time for each group to practice their part and then come together as a class.
  • Practice the full song with everyone participating.
Conclusion: (5 minutes)
  • Discuss any final adjustments or improvements for the performance.
Assessment:
  • Observe students' participation and enthusiasm during practice.
Lesson 6: Performance Day
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Resources Needed: Audio recording of the song, optional costumes or props, camera for recording the performance
Introduction: (5 minutes)
  • Briefly go over the performance plan with the students.
Development: (30 minutes)
  • Perform "Cotton Eye Joe" as a class, ensuring everyone participates.
  • Record the performance for future reference or to show other classes.
Conclusion: (5 minutes)
  • Congratulate the students on their performance.
  • Discuss what they enjoyed about the process and what they learned.
Assessment:
  • Evaluate the performance based on participation, enthusiasm, and accuracy of lyrics.