Lyric Poetry Rubric

Lyric Poetry Rubric

By Mr. Ruszczyk & Mr. Chesnoff

Project Description:

The purpose of this project is to introduce students to lyric poetry. In doing so we will examine the lyrics in contemporary songs and the message behind those lyrics. Furthermore we will be analyzing what literary techniques the author uses to make the song and it's message clear and attractive to the audience. We will be expected to complete a written analysis, oral presentation, performance-based interpretation, self-evaluation, and peer evaluation.

Written Analysis:

Song Thesis: This will include a brief summary of the song and a thesis statement. The thesis should in one or two sentences state what the song is essentially about. For example, TLC’s song Pretty might be summarized by saying: "This song displays the importance of understanding that true beauty is found in a person’s character and personality, not in the physical features."	10 points
Themes: Go deep into the text and find what the song is really saying. What is the song’s theme? Is there some greater knowledge the singer/song writer is trying to embark on the audience? Is there some life lesson or moral value that we as the listener are supposed to understand or be reminded of? What is really... What is essentially going on in this song? Give 2-3 examples of lines from the song that display the song’s theme.	30 points
Style/Genre: What kind of song is this? Is it Rap, R & B, Blues, Rock N’ Roll, a ballad, Pop, Alternative, etc. What components of the song make it fit that genre? Do the lyrics have anything to do with the style of the song? Further explain whether the lyrics (the words to the song) would fall into the poetic category of a ballad or lyric and explain why.	10 points
Literary Devices: : Is the song writer using any literary devices or figurative language? Are there any examples of imagery, metaphors, similes, personification, alliteration, rhyme, or Repetition? What tone do these literary devices create? How do the literary devices further the effect of the song on the listener?	40 points
Author Information: Who wrote the song? Find out juice about the author. Their History, other song's they've written, their personal life, etc.	10 points
Total:	100 points

Presentation:

Recording of Song: Simply, to play a recording of the song for the class. Can be done at any time during the presentation.	10 points
Oral Analysis of Song: The oral analysis should hit on some of the main points from the written analysis. There should be at least one point from each of the categories: Song Thesis, Themes, Style/Genre, Literary Devices, and Author Information.	30 points
Performance-based Interpretation: This can be some sort of visual, musical, or even choreographical interpretation of the song (via the analysis). For a visual interpretation you may do a power point presentation, collage, or original art piece. An original song may be used and while humor is encouraged the interpretation must be based in serious and legitimate points. If you can figure out an interpretive dance, by all means go for it.	30 points
Overall Quality: This relates to the professionalism, preparedness, appearance of the group and their presentation. After observing your group, do I feel that you put in the time and effort that the project deserves?	20 points
Full Group Participation: Did everyone in the group participate in the presentation?	10 points
Totals:	100 points

Peer Evaluation: An average of your peers' evaluation will be taken.

Recording of Song:	10 points
Oral Analysis of Song:	15 points
Performance-based Interpretation:	15 points
Overall Quality:	5 points
Full Group Participation:	5 points
Totals:	50 points

Self-Evaluation:

Evaluation of yourself and group members:

50 points