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Growing up in the 80s, the Live Aid Concert (USA Today Article) was perhaps one of the biggest events of the decade. It was 1985 and musical performers form across the world gathered at major venues across the world. U2 gave an amazing performance of their song Bad, which tells a tale of drug addiction.
Before continuing on, please take time and watch the amazing performance and then we will try and make a few important connections between this performance and successful teaching in the classroom.
This BBC Article can be a great resource to share with students.
Bring Energy: It’s very hard to be enthusiastic and energetic every day however, energy in the classroom can create a certain level of excitement and raise the performance and participation of students. Bono exudes energy in this amazing performance. He is full or energy and the crowd reciprocates. Tnhe crowd moves, dances, claps, waves flags. The crowd becomes part of the performance.
Be Prepared: U2 was in the early stages of its career, but they had rehearsed and performed for YEARS! They improved skills and worked together to be able to shine on the Wembley Stadium stage for the entire world to see.. And they certainly put a great deal of thought into the set list and the songs they would include from other artists. The U2 Live Aid performance did not just happened, it was years in the making.
Audience Participation: Involving students, actively in lessons is critical. Ttopping the class having them stand up and hop on 1 foot to get the blood flowing is creative. Asking them to draw a picture or presenting writing prompts mid lesson. Timed activities. All allow students to participate. Know your students and do all you can to have them fully engaged.
Playing Well With Others: U2 is a band that stands the test of time. They have adapted over the years. Their stages are trend setting and their music pushes the limit limits of creativity. Many classrooms have power professionals and co-teachers. Middle schools often have teams. High schools have departments. Work with these individuals to create the last best lessons and lean on each other’s expertise.
Use Visuals and Props: Irish and white flags were always part of U2 shows during the 80s. You can see them in the crowd. One signature moment of the performance was when Bono receives a flag that has been passed on by the fans.
Create Memories: