Polygon Rap Battle: An Informative Hip-Hop Project
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Polygon Rap Battle: An Informative Hip-Hop Project

Grade 6English1 days
★★★★★
5.0 (1 rating)
In this project, 6th-grade students create a rap battle to teach the audience about polygons using rhythm, rhyme, and strong arguments. Students will research different types of polygons, construct well-organized informative text, and evaluate arguments. The project involves researching a specific polygon, writing rap lyrics, incorporating peer feedback, and performing a final rap battle.
PolygonsRap BattleRhythm and RhymeInformative TextArgumentsPeer ReviewPerformance
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we create a rap battle that effectively teaches the audience about polygons while using rhythm, rhyme, and strong arguments?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • What are the different types of polygons?
  • How can you use rhythm and rhyme to explain a topic?
  • What makes a good argument in a rap?
  • How do you organize information clearly in writing?
  • How can you use lyrics to teach someone about polygons?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Students will be able to identify and describe different types of polygons.
  • Students will be able to use rhythm and rhyme to explain a topic.
  • Students will be able to construct a well-organized informative text.
  • Students will be able to evaluate and trace arguments.
  • Students will be able to write informative lyrics to teach someone about polygons.
  • Students will be able to write a rap battle about polygons

Reading Informational Text

RI.6.8
Primary
Trace and evaluate an author’s argument and claims.Reason: The rap battle requires students to understand and evaluate arguments made about different polygons.

Writing

W.6.2
Primary
Write informative/explanatory texts with clear organization.Reason: The rap battle is an informative text that needs to be clearly organized to effectively teach about polygons.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

Polygon Debate

Initiate a 'Polygon Debate' where students are divided into groups, each representing a different polygon family (triangles, quadrilaterals, etc.). Each group must argue why their polygon family is the most important/versatile, requiring them to research and present compelling arguments based on the polygons' attributes and uses.

Polygon Press Conference

Hold a mock 'Polygon Press Conference' where students role-play as different polygons and answer questions from the class (acting as reporters) about their properties and unique characteristics. This event sparks curiosity about the attributes of different polygons and encourages students to gather information and prepare arguments, mirroring the research and writing they'll do for the rap battle.

Mystery Shape Challenge

Launch a 'Mystery Shape Challenge' where students receive clues about a hidden polygon, gradually revealing its properties and challenging them to identify it. This activity cultivates curiosity and problem-solving skills and provides a foundation for understanding and comparing polygon attributes, which will be useful in creating rap lyrics.

Geometric Art Gallery Walk

Organize a 'Geometric Art Gallery Walk' showcasing artwork inspired by polygons. Students analyze the artwork, identify the polygons used, and discuss how the shapes contribute to the overall aesthetic and meaning, inspiring them to think creatively about how they can use polygons to communicate ideas in their raps.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

Polygon Profile: Research Roundup

Students begin by selecting a specific polygon to champion in the rap battle. They will research the polygon’s unique properties, history, and real-world applications to build a strong foundation for their arguments.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Choose a polygon to represent in the rap battle.
2. Conduct research on the chosen polygon, focusing on its properties, history, and uses.
3. Compile the research into a structured brief with clear sections for properties, history, and applications.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed research brief on the selected polygon, including key properties, historical significance, and applications.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCovers RI.6.8 (Tracing and evaluating arguments) and W.6.2 (Introduction to informative writing).
Activity 2

Argument Analysis: The Pro/Con Polygon

Students will analyze the arguments for and against their chosen polygon, identifying strengths and weaknesses. They will then create a pro/con list and begin outlining their rap lyrics to address these points.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Create a pro/con list based on your research, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of your polygon.
2. Develop an outline for the rap lyrics, incorporating arguments and rebuttals based on the pro/con list.
3. Organize the outline into verses and sections, ensuring a logical flow of information.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA pro/con list for the selected polygon and an initial outline of rap lyrics, including key arguments and rebuttals.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCovers RI.6.8 (Evaluating claims) and W.6.2 (Developing clear organization).
Activity 3

Lyric Lab: Drafting the Polygon Rap

Students will draft their rap lyrics, focusing on clear and accurate information about the polygon, using rhythm and rhyme to make the information engaging and memorable. This draft should include at least two verses and a chorus.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Write the first draft of the rap lyrics, incorporating the information from the research brief and outline.
2. Focus on using clear and accurate language to describe the polygon’s properties.
3. Incorporate rhythm and rhyme to make the lyrics engaging and memorable.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA complete first draft of the rap lyrics, including verses and a chorus, with a focus on accuracy and rhythm.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCovers W.6.2 (Writing informative texts) and RI.6.8 (Understanding author's argument).
Activity 4

Rhyme Review: Peer Feedback

Students will participate in peer review sessions, providing constructive feedback on the accuracy, clarity, and rhythm of each other's rap lyrics. They will use a rubric to guide their feedback.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Exchange rap lyrics with a partner for peer review.
2. Provide feedback based on a rubric, focusing on accuracy, clarity, and rhythm.
3. Revise the rap lyrics based on the feedback received from peers.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityRevised rap lyrics based on peer feedback, incorporating suggestions for improvement.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCovers RI.6.8 (Evaluating arguments) and W.6.2 (Clear organization).
Activity 5

Rap Refinement: Final Performance Prep

Students will refine their rap lyrics based on the peer review feedback, ensuring that the information is accurate, the arguments are strong, and the rhythm is engaging. They will also practice their performance in preparation for the final rap battle.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Make final revisions to the rap lyrics based on peer feedback.
2. Practice the performance of the rap, focusing on rhythm, tone, and delivery.
3. Prepare for the rap battle by memorizing the lyrics and planning stage presence.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityFinalized rap lyrics and a practiced performance of the rap, ready for the rap battle.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCovers W.6.2 (Final informative text) and RI.6.8 (Understanding claims).
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Polygon Rap Battle Rubric

Category 1

Research Quality

This category assesses the accuracy, clarity, and organization of the research conducted on the selected polygon.
Criterion 1

Accuracy of Information

Accuracy of information about the selected polygon, including its properties, history, and real-world applications.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates exceptional accuracy and depth of information. Includes advanced properties and nuanced applications, exceeding expectations.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates accurate and thorough information about the polygon's properties, history, and applications.

Developing
2 Points

Demonstrates some accuracy but lacks depth or contains minor inaccuracies.

Beginning
1 Points

Demonstrates significant inaccuracies or a lack of understanding of the polygon's properties, history, and applications.

Criterion 2

Clarity and Organization

Clarity and organization of the research brief, with clear sections for properties, history, and applications.

Exemplary
4 Points

Presents information in an exceptionally clear, concise, and well-organized manner with seamless transitions between sections.

Proficient
3 Points

Presents information in a clear and well-organized manner, with distinct sections for properties, history, and applications.

Developing
2 Points

Presents information with some organization, but clarity is lacking or sections are not well-defined.

Beginning
1 Points

Presents information in a disorganized and unclear manner, making it difficult to understand the polygon's profile.

Criterion 3

Use of Sources and Evidence

Use of sources and evidence to support the claims and information presented in the research brief.

Exemplary
4 Points

Uses a variety of credible sources effectively and integrates evidence seamlessly to support claims with exceptional depth and insight.

Proficient
3 Points

Uses credible sources to support claims and information presented in the research brief.

Developing
2 Points

Uses limited or questionable sources, with minimal evidence to support claims.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to use sources or provide evidence to support claims in the research brief.

Category 2

Argument Analysis and Outline

This category assesses the student’s ability to analyze arguments for and against their chosen polygon and to create a well-organized outline for their rap lyrics.
Criterion 1

Pro/Con Analysis

Effectiveness of the pro/con list in identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the chosen polygon.

Exemplary
4 Points

The pro/con list demonstrates an exceptional understanding of the polygon, identifying nuanced strengths and weaknesses with insightful analysis.

Proficient
3 Points

The pro/con list effectively identifies the key strengths and weaknesses of the chosen polygon.

Developing
2 Points

The pro/con list identifies some strengths and weaknesses, but lacks depth or contains inaccuracies.

Beginning
1 Points

The pro/con list is incomplete or fails to accurately identify the strengths and weaknesses of the polygon.

Criterion 2

Outline Quality

Quality and logical flow of the rap lyrics outline, incorporating arguments and rebuttals based on the pro/con list.

Exemplary
4 Points

The rap lyrics outline is exceptionally well-organized and creative, seamlessly integrating arguments and rebuttals in a compelling narrative.

Proficient
3 Points

The rap lyrics outline is well-organized and incorporates arguments and rebuttals in a logical manner.

Developing
2 Points

The rap lyrics outline shows some organization but lacks a clear flow of arguments and rebuttals.

Beginning
1 Points

The rap lyrics outline is disorganized and lacks a logical flow of arguments and rebuttals.

Criterion 3

Argument Creativity

Creativity and originality in the arguments and rebuttals presented in the outline.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates exceptional creativity and originality in presenting arguments and rebuttals, offering unique insights and perspectives.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates creativity and originality in the arguments and rebuttals presented in the outline.

Developing
2 Points

Shows some creativity but relies on common or obvious arguments and rebuttals.

Beginning
1 Points

Lacks creativity and originality in the arguments and rebuttals presented in the outline.

Category 3

Rap Lyric Drafting

This category assesses the accuracy, rhythm, and overall quality of the drafted rap lyrics.
Criterion 1

Information Accuracy

Accuracy and clarity of the information presented in the rap lyrics, ensuring factual correctness.

Exemplary
4 Points

Presents information with exceptional accuracy and clarity, demonstrating a deep understanding of the polygon’s properties and characteristics.

Proficient
3 Points

Presents information with accuracy and clarity, ensuring factual correctness.

Developing
2 Points

Contains some inaccuracies or lacks clarity in the presentation of information.

Beginning
1 Points

Contains significant inaccuracies or a lack of understanding of the polygon’s properties and characteristics.

Criterion 2

Rhythm and Rhyme

Use of rhythm and rhyme to make the lyrics engaging and memorable.

Exemplary
4 Points

Masterfully incorporates rhythm and rhyme to create highly engaging and memorable lyrics that enhance the learning experience.

Proficient
3 Points

Effectively incorporates rhythm and rhyme to make the lyrics engaging and memorable.

Developing
2 Points

Shows some attempt at rhythm and rhyme, but it is inconsistent or ineffective.

Beginning
1 Points

Lacks rhythm and rhyme, making the lyrics unengaging and difficult to remember.

Criterion 3

Lyric Quality

Overall quality and coherence of the rap lyrics, including structure, flow, and creativity.

Exemplary
4 Points

The rap lyrics demonstrate exceptional quality, coherence, and creativity, creating a compelling and informative piece of work.

Proficient
3 Points

The rap lyrics demonstrate good quality, coherence, and creativity.

Developing
2 Points

The rap lyrics show some quality and coherence, but lack creativity or have structural issues.

Beginning
1 Points

The rap lyrics lack quality, coherence, and creativity, making it difficult to understand the message.

Category 4

Peer Review and Revision

This category assesses the quality of peer feedback and the student’s ability to incorporate that feedback into their revised rap lyrics.
Criterion 1

Feedback Quality

Quality and depth of feedback provided to peers, focusing on accuracy, clarity, and rhythm.

Exemplary
4 Points

Provides exceptionally insightful and constructive feedback, demonstrating a deep understanding of the rubric criteria and offering specific suggestions for improvement.

Proficient
3 Points

Provides constructive feedback, focusing on accuracy, clarity, and rhythm, and offering suggestions for improvement.

Developing
2 Points

Provides some feedback, but it is superficial or lacks specific suggestions for improvement.

Beginning
1 Points

Provides minimal or unhelpful feedback, failing to address the key criteria of accuracy, clarity, and rhythm.

Criterion 2

Feedback Incorporation

Incorporation of peer feedback into the revised rap lyrics, showing improvement in accuracy, clarity, and rhythm.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates a masterful incorporation of peer feedback, resulting in significant improvements in accuracy, clarity, and rhythm, and exceeding expectations.

Proficient
3 Points

Effectively incorporates peer feedback into the revised rap lyrics, showing improvement in accuracy, clarity, and rhythm.

Developing
2 Points

Incorporates some peer feedback, but improvements are minimal or inconsistent.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to incorporate peer feedback or show improvement in the revised rap lyrics.

Criterion 3

Rubric Utilization

Use of the rubric to guide feedback and revision processes.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates exemplary use of the rubric to guide feedback and revision, resulting in comprehensive and targeted improvements.

Proficient
3 Points

Effectively uses the rubric to guide feedback and revision processes.

Developing
2 Points

Shows some awareness of the rubric, but its use is limited or inconsistent.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to use the rubric to guide feedback and revision processes.

Category 5

Final Performance

This category assesses the final quality of the rap lyrics and the effectiveness of the rap performance.
Criterion 1

Final Lyric Quality

Final quality of the rap lyrics, considering accuracy, clarity, rhythm, and overall coherence.

Exemplary
4 Points

The final rap lyrics are of exceptional quality, demonstrating mastery of accuracy, clarity, rhythm, and coherence, creating a compelling and informative piece.

Proficient
3 Points

The final rap lyrics are of high quality, demonstrating accuracy, clarity, rhythm, and coherence.

Developing
2 Points

The final rap lyrics show some quality, but have weaknesses in accuracy, clarity, rhythm, or coherence.

Beginning
1 Points

The final rap lyrics lack quality and have significant weaknesses in accuracy, clarity, rhythm, and coherence.

Criterion 2

Performance Effectiveness

Effectiveness of the rap performance, including rhythm, tone, delivery, and stage presence.

Exemplary
4 Points

The rap performance is exceptionally engaging and effective, demonstrating a mastery of rhythm, tone, delivery, and stage presence.

Proficient
3 Points

The rap performance is effective, demonstrating good rhythm, tone, delivery, and stage presence.

Developing
2 Points

The rap performance shows some effectiveness, but has weaknesses in rhythm, tone, delivery, or stage presence.

Beginning
1 Points

The rap performance lacks effectiveness and has significant weaknesses in rhythm, tone, delivery, and stage presence.

Criterion 3

Rap Battle Preparedness

Overall preparedness for the rap battle, including memorization of lyrics and planning of stage presence.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates exceptional preparedness for the rap battle, with fully memorized lyrics and a well-planned and engaging stage presence.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates good preparedness for the rap battle, with memorized lyrics and a planned stage presence.

Developing
2 Points

Shows some preparedness for the rap battle, but has difficulty memorizing lyrics or lacks a clear stage presence.

Beginning
1 Points

Lacks preparedness for the rap battle, with unmemorized lyrics and no planned stage presence.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

What was the most challenging part of creating a rap battle about polygons, and how did you overcome it?

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Question 2

On a scale of 1 to 5, how confident are you in your ability to explain the properties of polygons using rhythm and rhyme?

Scale
Required
Question 3

Which part of the rap writing process (research, outlining, drafting, or revising) did you find most helpful in understanding polygons?

Multiple choice
Required
Options
Research
Outlining
Drafting
Revising
Question 4

How did receiving feedback from your peers change your understanding of the arguments for and against your chosen polygon?

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Required
Question 5

If you could do this project again, what is one thing you would change to make your rap battle even more informative and engaging?

Text
Required