Lesson 1 - Get to Know
the Book
The Grown-Up Scoop
These first lessons are all about discovering this amazing book. Use this time to not only read it, but to start diving into the themes and details of the story!
Below are links to download the Book Pack Plan and Study Guide for The Sound That Jazz Makes. Feel free to use these to explore the book on your own, or as a guide to follow along with as you travel through the sections.
Before You Read
To get started, share this short story summary with your child(ren):
The Sound That Jazz Makes is a celebration of a remarkable heritage. Author Carole Boston Weatherford’s lyrical stanza trace the history of jazz from African before the slave ships to Harlem nightclubs, and to the present. The tragic and joyous legacy of the African-American experience gives jazz its passion and spirit.
Now, sitting comfortably with your child(ren), show them the front and back covers of the book. Then ask questions, like the following, to stimulate their thinking, to encourage them to read, and to create wonder.
Are You Ready?
Begin each lesson with an African A-GO and A-MAY exercise to bring child(ren) to attention.
A-GO: Means “Are you ready to listen in silence?” (Explain the meaning and have them repeat the word.)
A-MAY: Means “Yes, I am ready to listen in silence and you may begin.” (Explain the meaning and have them repeat the word.)
Before Reading Questions:
Have you heard of, or listened to, a type of music called jazz?
Can you find the continent of Africa on a map?
What do you know about the continent of Africa?
Why do people make music? Do you like to make music?
Have you heard of slavery? How would you describe slavery to someone?
How can music make someone feel better?
How would you describe the people’s facial expressions?
Read the Book
When you are ready, read the book with your child(ren). Remember to have fun with it!
After You Read
After reading, review the story and its details by asking more questions to your child/children.
Post Reading Questions:
How is a drum made in Africa and what can it be used for?
How did the sounds of Africa come to the United States?
Name some of the instruments played throughout the story.
How did enslaved Africans send messages?
What different kinds of music does the story introduce?
How do you think music helped enslaved African Americans?
Name some of the famous African American musicians in the book.
Where was the rhythm of Jazz first heard?
Who are some of the jazz musicians in the story?