Focus/Context

This lesson is focused on the song "One" by Metallica, a popular heavy metal group. It is important that students of English Language Arts realize that what we study in the classroom is not a boundary to the study of literature - texts exist everywhere. Most people take it for granted that popular music/television shows/movies/videogames, etc. exist but somehow, most people also forget how to interpret these things. Beyond that, this unit is geared towards The Diary of a Young Girl and "One" tells the story of a victim of war. Previously, I have discussed war from the perspectives of those who wage it (Armies of the Moon, Sentry, etc.). At the end of this lesson, students ought to be able to identify the elements of ELA in everyday life more clearly. In addition, they should also be able to explain how music can add meaning to literature and have a better understanding of the consequences of war.

Specific Curriculum Outcomes

1. Students will be expected to examine their own and others' ideas in discussion to extend their understanding.
   
2. Students will be expected to listen to assess the relevancy and adequacy of the evidence that speakers give.
   
3. Students will be expected to explain how specific texts and genre characteristics contribute t meaning and effect.
   
4. Students will be expected to demonstrate an awareness of the power of spoken language to influence and manipulate and to reveal ideas, values and attributes.
   
5. Students will be expected to listen to assess the relevancy and adequacy of the evidence that speakers give.

Activities

• Students will continue to discuss as a group the short story Sentry, which began last class. The idea that our enemies are like us is a disturbing one - one which is often forgotten in war. Sentry teaches us to 'look behind the mask.' Discussion will continue until both the students and the teacher are satisfied that the topic has been dealt with sufficiently.
  
• Students will be presented with the lyrics for "One" on an overhead projection (to save paper). They will be asked to read it silently.
  
• Students will listen as the lyrics are read orally by the teacher.
  
• Students will discuss the meaning of the 'poem' and how it relates to what has been studied previously. Students will revisit the terms diction, tone, inflection, etc. and examine how they help to develop meaning in "One."
  
• It will be revealed that the 'poem' is actually a song by Metallica (it is an older song, which may not be familiar to most students in grade nine). The song "One" will be played on the classroom CD Player.
  
• Students will be asked to listen to the music and how it, in and of itself, tells the story of the soldier and in effect, adds meaning to the lyrics.
  
• Students will participate in a group discussion about how poems and songs differ and how ELA texts are indeed everywhere.

Resources

• "One" by Metallica (overhead and music provided by teacher).