Baba Got Bars
Artist Statement
In Hip Hop, the art of MC’ing (Master of Ceremony, or microphone controller) is reliant on the ability to rearrange complex ideas into concise rhymes. If they do it well, they can make memorable rhymes that stick with the listener and inform them about the world around them. It is commonly believed that the art of Hip Hop rhyming is an innate talent, but through apply writing process principles already used in the classroom, combined with my B.A.R.S. curriculum, any student can be taught to rhyme. Students learn how a well written essay resembles a well written song. The main idea is the thesis paragraph in an essay, and is the chorus/refrain/hook in a song, while the supporting details in an essay are just like the verses in a song.
Biography
For well over 15 years, Bomani has used hip-hop, poetry and multi-media disciplines to teach unique and innovative workshops for kindergarteners to graduate students.
Programs
The Bomani Armah wRiting System (B.A.R.S.) curriculum gets students excited and prepared to be creative writers! Starting from kindergarteners learning to recognize syllables to revealing to high schoolers seeing how a well-written essay resembles a well-written song, with the Main Idea being the thesis paragraph in an essay and a chorus/refrain/hook in a song, while the Supporting Details in an essay are just like the verses. The fun and innovative concepts of the BARS curriculum will get your student writing no matter their literacy level! Available for workshops, residencies, assemblies and professional development.
Quotes
You should be famous!
– Tayshaun, 2nd Grade, Johnston Square Elementary
The structure and method of leading the students through the writing process is extremely impressive!
– Samuel Gachelin, 5th Grade Felegy Elementary
Bomani gave us invaluable tips on how to use hip-hop to teach writing.
– Leigh Brownell-Currens, Co-President, Frederick County Reading Council