The article "Leonardo da Vinci: Artist, Inventor, and Renaissance Genius" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores Leonardo da Vinci’s life as an artist, engineer, and visionary thinker. It outlines his rise from an apprentice in Florence to becoming a celebrated figure in the court of the French king. It also reveals how his inventions — such as early flying machines and war weapons — were centuries ahead of their time.
In Zora Neale Hurston and the Harlem Renaissance, explore the life and work of writer and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston, from her Alabama childhood to her studies of African American folklore and culture. Though she died in obscurity, her legacy was revived by Alice Walker, restoring her place as a key figure in literature and the Harlem Renaissance.
Discover the powerful story and lasting influence of Billie Holiday, one of the most important voices in American music history. Students will explore how her unforgettable style, emotional performances, and groundbreaking songs helped shape jazz culture while shining a light on the realities of segregation and racism in the United States.
This Kahoot examines Holiday’s life and music, including the rise of jazz clubs during the Harlem Renaissance, the challenges Black performers faced during segregation, and the impact of her famous protest song, "Strange Fruit." Students will build listening skills, expand vocabulary, and deepen their understanding of how music can inspire awareness, emotion, and social change.
Watch the related BBC videos (for mature viewers), Billie Holiday, a Voice Against Injustice and Billie Holiday and Strange Fruit, then invite your Grade 9–12 students to test their knowledge and explore the powerful connection between music, history, and culture.
The article "Leonardo da Vinci: Artist, Inventor, and Renaissance Genius" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores Leonardo da Vinci’s life as an artist, engineer, and visionary thinker. It outlines his rise from an apprentice in Florence to becoming a celebrated figure in the court of the French king. It also reveals how his inventions — such as early flying machines and war weapons — were centuries ahead of their time.
In Zora Neale Hurston and the Harlem Renaissance, explore the life and work of writer and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston, from her Alabama childhood to her studies of African American folklore and culture. Though she died in obscurity, her legacy was revived by Alice Walker, restoring her place as a key figure in literature and the Harlem Renaissance.
Discover the powerful story and lasting influence of Billie Holiday, one of the most important voices in American music history. Students will explore how her unforgettable style, emotional performances, and groundbreaking songs helped shape jazz culture while shining a light on the realities of segregation and racism in the United States.
This Kahoot examines Holiday’s life and music, including the rise of jazz clubs during the Harlem Renaissance, the challenges Black performers faced during segregation, and the impact of her famous protest song, "Strange Fruit." Students will build listening skills, expand vocabulary, and deepen their understanding of how music can inspire awareness, emotion, and social change.
Watch the related BBC videos (for mature viewers), Billie Holiday, a Voice Against Injustice and Billie Holiday and Strange Fruit, then invite your Grade 9–12 students to test their knowledge and explore the powerful connection between music, history, and culture.