Heathen Heather

Absolutely.

Is the city-killer on the cancellation list? I know that meteor has an appointment for 2032, but we have an opening today.

I've met with many cabinet nominees across many admins, and my meeting with RFK Jr. was by far the most troubling.

He rattled off debunked conspiracy theories & lied to my face—denying his own statements he'd made on record. We cannot confirm an anti-vaxxer as Secretary of Health.

People who don’t know that a world exists beyond their noses wouldn’t know that the good for one is based on the good for all.

You did that with a migraine? I’m impressed but also concerned. I hope you feel better now.

This is great. Thank you for posting it.

4. Critical Thinking and Discussion (15 Minutes) Discussion Questions: What do you think Kendrick Lamar wants his audience to feel or think? How do the symbols and lyrics relate to current social issues? Why is it important for artists to use their platform to address serious topics?

5. Creative Application (20 Minutes) Activity: Create Your Own Symbolic Expression Option 1: Write a short poem that includes at least two examples of figurative language (metaphor, simile, or symbolism) to express a personal message. Option 2: Design a visual symbol (drawing, collage, or digital image) that represents a theme we discussed. Write a short paragraph explaining your design.

Wrap-Up Discussion (5 Minutes): Students share their creative work in small groups. Reflection Prompt: "How does understanding symbolism and figurative language change the way you experience art and music?" Homework/Extension Activity: Option 1: Research another artist who uses symbolism and write a short paragraph explaining one of their works. Option 2: Write a reflection on how music can inspire change in the world.

Assessment: Class Participation: Engaging in discussions and group work. Analysis Activity: Accurate identification of figurative language and symbolism in lyrics. Creative Response: Effort, creativity, and thoughtfulness in the poem or visual symbol project

Rest of the free Pultizer Prize winning Kendrick Lamar lesson plan.

What else would you add?/2

Iman Cassells Alleyne LitStudies Lesson Plan: Analyzing Symbolism and Figurative Language in Kendrick Lamar’s Halftime Performance Age: 10+ Subject: English Language Arts Duration: 60—90 minutes Theme: Music as Literature — Symbolism, Figurative Language, and Social Commentary Objective: By the end of this lesson, students will: 1. Understand and analyze how Kendrick Lamar uses symbolism to convey meaning in his performance. 2. Identify examples of figurative language (metaphors, similes, repetition, symbolism) in lyrics. 3. Apply critical thinking skills to explore the cultural significance of his work. 4. Create original works that incorporate figurative language and symbolism.

Lesson Breakdown: 1. Introduction to Symbolism and Figurative Language (10 Minutes) Mini-Lesson: Define figurative language (metaphor, simile, symbolism, repetition) and symbolism as the use of objects, words, or actions to represent abstract ideas. Examples: Metaphor: “I got loyalty, got royalty inside my DNA" - This line compares one's heritage to royalty, symbolizing strength and pride. Symbolism: Chains or shackles — Represent historical oppression and the fight for freedom. Repetition: “We gon'’ be alright” — Emphasizes resilience and collective strength.

2. Watch the Performance (15 Minutes) Set the Context: Before watching, tell students to focus on repeated images, colors, and lyrics. Guiding Questions: What symbols or repeated imagery do you notice? How does Kendrick’s use of visuals connect to the meaning of the performance? Show the video or key excerpts from Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance.

3. Guided Analysis (20 Minutes) Teacher-Led Discussion: Break down specific symbols and figurative language used in the performance. The color red: Often symbolizes struggle, power, or sacrifice. Marching formation: Unity, discipline, and protest. Lyrics like “We gon’ be alright”: A powerful statement of survival and hope, rooted in the Black experience. Group Work: In pairs, students analyze a portion of the lyrics (provided in the handout) and find examples of figurative language and symbolism.

#DiscoverThis an extended English Language Arts lesson on Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl performance. Free teaching ideas shared on FB by Iman Cassells Alleyne /1
#ELChat #homeschool #HomeEducation #curriculum

And worse, like, on a whim. He’s just out there spitballing atrocities for funsies.

Doom scrolling interruption presents:

Peekachoo.

Elon Musk tweet: We spent the wekend feeding USAID

Imagine you were the richest man in the world. You could have anything you wanted, go anywhere you wished, do whatever took you fancy. How would you spend your weekend? Depriving the poorest people in the world of food and healthcare and boasting about it?

I can bring the sharpies and snacks.

That is gorgeous. Thank you for the reminder.

Relatable.

We have a beautiful country. It would be nice to keep it.
Near Asheville, NC:

This book inspired great classroom discussions about time and space.

DeSoto State Park magic.

Sign that says now hiring 2 for $5

It’s getting pretty bad.

I’m laughing because I’m uncomfortable.

Snack.

It is legitimately rough. You are not alone.

Snail in leaves

A little forest floor magic from Fort Payne, AL.

This lady Luna Moth I saw last summer was super pretty. The wing notches make her look tough, IMHO.

Just when I don’t think I could be more attracted to him, my husband uses swear words describing how much he loves me. Are you telling me this is mutual???
Jackpot.

Happy belated birthday. I hope it was awesome.

Yes!

You are greatly appreciated. Your posts are awesome.

I watched this yesterday before I had to head out to work in public. I came back because I wanted to thank you for doing this. Things have been awful-weird, and it was such a great relief to have some awesome-weird to think about instead.