Maren Morris is a Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter, best known for her country music hits. One of her most popular songs, “Girl,” can serve as a powerful teaching tool for students. The song’s lyrics and message promote self-acceptance, empowerment, and resilience. This article will explore how educators can teach their students about Maren Morris’ “Girl” to inspire and empower the next generation.

1. Analyzing Lyrics for Meaningful Messages

Begin by introducing your students to the song’s lyrics. Provide the students with a printed copy of the lyrics and play the song for them in class. Encourage them to listen carefully not only to the rhythm and melody but also to the words being sung.

After listening to the song, facilitate a classroom discussion by asking students about their initial thoughts on the lyrics. They should identify key themes such as self-acceptance, overcoming challenges, and resilience in their responses.

2. Understanding Tokenism and Stereotypes in Media

Use Maren Morris’ “Girl” as an entry point to discuss tokenism and stereotypes in media. Teach your students that tokenism occurs when someone is included or portrayed in TV shows, movies, or music solely because of their gender, race, or religion. Discuss how “Girl” addresses this issue by encouraging individuals not to be limited by societal expectations placed upon them based on stereotypes.

3. Connecting with Personal Experiences

To deepen students’ understanding of the song’s message and cultivate empathy for others who have faced similar challenges, encourage them to share any personal experiences they might have had with stereotyping or tokenism.

4. Encouraging Self-expression Through Creative Continuation

Invite your students to write creative extensions of Maren Morris’ “Girl.” This can include writing alternate verses or choruses for the song that reflect their personal experiences or creating their own stories or poems that express the themes of self-acceptance, empowerment, and resilience.

5. Highlighting the Use of Music as a Platform for Social Change

Create a lesson plan on the power of music in promoting social change. Use examples like Maren Morris, who uses her music to challenge stereotypes and fight for gender equality in the country music industry. Discuss with your students how artists can make a positive impact on the world through their work.