Your Name Is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

The dynamic, pastel-hued illustrations reflect energy and strength. They make a way out of no way, make names out of no names-pull them from the sky!” A glossary notes the origins and meanings of the names included in the text, with a note to always listen closely to how a person pronounces their name. Their real names were stolen long ago so they dream up new ones. This lovely celebration of African American culture, featuring a Muslim family, offers a fresh way to look at the tradition of creating new names Momma says, “Made-up names come from dreamers. (Each name is spelled phonetically in parentheses for ease of caregivers reading aloud.) The next day, “the girl didn’t want to go to school, but she had songs to teach.” She even shows her teacher that “Miss Anderson” is a song. As they walk through the streets, swaying and dancing to the sounds of street musicians and music from cars, Momma sings names from many different cultures. Reflecting the title, Momma tells her to tell her teacher her name is a song.

The girl is upset because no one could say her name-not even the teacher. Momma arrives, wearing a bright headwrap, and asks about her first day of school. *Speech Piece/Rhythmic Ostinatos (Link to google slide visual is also included)įor the class arrangement, there are 2 lesson plans included for different teaching scenarios:ġ) Orff Arrangement with pentatonic melody, bass line/xylophone part, rhythmic ostinatos/unpitched percussion parts, and opportunity for student improvisation/solos.Ģ) Speech Piece Arrangement in Rondo Form (no singing or instruments needed).A girl learns to appreciate her long name and the diverse names of others.Ī Black child wearing cornrows braided into an afro puff watches her classmates in the schoolyard playing handball. I created these activities for multiple teaching scenarios (remote, in person, singing/no singing, instruments/no instruments) and multiple grade levels (suggested grade levels are given for each activity). You can purchase the book on Amazon, or even better, at your local bookstore! This is a beautiful book about the meaning and musicality behind names- perfect for back to school activities in the music room. These activities are based on the book 'Your Name is a Song,' by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow.

Hope you enjoy this back to school gift! I'd love to hear your feedback!

Your Name Is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow