Learning Objectives:
- Students will be able to listen to and understand the lyrics of the traditional song “The Hokey Pokey.”
- Students will identify and analyze the song’s structure, rhyme scheme, and use of repetition.
- Students will explore the song’s cultural origins and its variations across different English-speaking regions.
- Students will engage in critical thinking by discussing the song’s purpose and its impact on language learning and cultural understanding.
Materials:
- Audio recordings of “The Hokey Pokey” (different versions can be used: slow/fast, with/without music, various accents).
- Lyrics of the song printed or displayed.
Song:
Script (Lyrics):
(Traditional Verse)
You put your right foot in, You put your right foot out, You put your right foot in, And you shake it all about. You do the Hokey Pokey, And you turn yourself around. That’s what it’s all about!
(Additional Verses)
(Replace “right foot” with other body parts: left foot, right hand, left hand, head, whole self, etc.)
Vocabulary:
- shake (verb): move (something) rapidly up and down or from side to side with short, quick movements.
- turn yourself around (phrase): rotate one’s body 360 degrees.
- hokey pokey (noun): a social dance in which participants put different parts of their bodies in and out of a circle.
Tasks (From the Student’s Perspective):
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Listen and Analyze:
- Listen to different versions of “The Hokey Pokey.” How does the song vary across different regions or countries?
- Discuss the song’s structure and rhyme scheme. How does it contribute to its catchy nature and ease of memorization?
- Analyze the use of repetition. What effect does it have on the listener?
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Cultural Context:
- Research the origins of “The Hokey Pokey.” What are some theories about its creation and early popularity?
- Explore variations of the song’s lyrics and choreography in different English-speaking cultures.
- Discuss the social and cultural functions of dance songs like “The Hokey Pokey.” How do they promote community and interaction?
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Critical Thinking:
- What is the purpose of the Hokey Pokey dance? Is it simply a fun activity, or could it serve other purposes, such as exercise or coordination development?
- Consider how the song’s lyrics might be interpreted metaphorically. Could they be seen as a commentary on conformity, individuality, or self-expression?
- How does the Hokey Pokey reflect cultural values related to play, movement, and social interaction?
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Linguistic Investigation:
- Analyze the vocabulary and grammar used in the song. Are there any idiomatic expressions or slang terms?
- Discuss how the song can be used to teach body parts vocabulary and prepositions (in, out, about) to English learners.
- Consider how you could adapt the song for different levels of language proficiency.
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Class Activity:
- Learn and perform the Hokey Pokey dance together as a class.
- Discuss how the song and the dance made you feel. Did you enjoy it? Why or why not?
Extension Activities (Optional):
- Research other traditional dance songs from different cultures.
- Create your own dance song, incorporating repetitive lyrics and actions.
- Write a short essay about the cultural significance of dance and music.
Outro:
“The Hokey Pokey” is more than just a silly song and dance. It’s a window into cultural traditions, a tool for language learning, and a testament to the power of music and movement to bring people together.
