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Sweet Babe O’Mine

Grades 9-12

Extension Activity 1: Turntable Toolkit

In this activity, students will write their own lullabies using the melody and structure of their choice. They can do this as individuals or in groups.

Sound recording of popular lullaby tunes, if you choose to use them.

Song Example Options
If it is helpful, students may use the melody and structure of a popular lullaby to write their own words. Some options are:

• Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star
• You are My Sunshine
• Hush, Little Baby
• Frère Jacques

1. Begin with an opening discussion. Prompt students to reflect on songs (especially lullabies) that are important to them and/or their families. Have students take a few minutes to write down songs that they sing or hear often among their family. The emphasis here is on songs that they do not hear often online or on the radio.
   1. Provide students with questions to facilitate the discussion.
      1. What song(s) are important to you and/or your family?
      2. Where do you first remember learning the song?
      3. Who performed the song?
      4. What do you like the most about the song?
      5. Why is the song important to you and/or your family?
   2. Allow students to share with a partner or in a group.


2. Have students listen to the example lullaby recording. This will likely need to be repeated to get the students familiar with the melody.
   1. If it is helpful, have the students repeat the melody on a neutral syllable (e.g., “la” or “do”).


3. Encourage students to select a topic they want to write about. Ask them to choose something that interests them, perhaps even something they find amusing. Possible topics include sleep rituals, fun dreams, or nighttime sounds.


4. Have students create their own text based on the agreed-upon melody. Students should create two to three verses for their lullaby, with the option to add more if time allows.
   1. Example: (using the tune of Hush, Little Baby)
      
      Late at night, I’m supposed to be asleep
      I get a craving for something sweet
      I sneak to the kitchen for a slice of cake
      Everyone else is also awake
      Satisfied smiles on every face
      What happened to my slice of cake?
      
   
   
5. Reflect on the activity. After completing the exercise, have students reflect on the experience.
   1. Why did you choose to write about your topic? What significance does it have for you?
   2. What challenges did you have creating your own lyrics?
   3. Have you ever written a song or poem to help change your mood or help you fall asleep? Will you consider doing it in the future?