Nazi Punks F*ck Off!

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: Punks

Step 1

Tell your students, “Let’s start by reading the lyrics of “Nazi Punks F*ck Off!” by Dead Kennedys. When we’re done, discuss the issue(s) they hold toward “Nazi Punks.” Why dedicated an entire song to them? And what exactly do they criticize in the song (aside from their hateful ideology)?”

Step 2

Briefly talk about modern day “Nazi punks.” Why is there a rise in prominence or visibility for this group? How do they resemble the Nazi punks depicted in the song by Dead Kennedys? Briefly discuss.

Step 3

Say, “Jot down a list of the issues you find with today’s “Nazi punks.” What gaps in logic do you notice? Write down as much as you can.” Then give your students a few minutes to brainstorm.

Step 4

Ask your students to compose a poem similar in sentiment to “Nazi Punks F*ck Off!” in which they criticize an element (or multiple elements) of the rise of modern day fascism.

Step 5

When the students are done, have them share their responses with one another.

The full presentation may be found HERE.

Analytical Lesson

Area of Focus: Various

Step 1

This lesson allows students to analyze various concepts and skills, so it is recommended that you have covered several of the “standalone” lessons before assigning this one.

Step 2

Start by showing your students the following video, a brief overview of the history of punk music and Dead Kennedys.

Step 3

When the video is done, briefly discuss the content. Aside from the obvious reasons, why were “Nazi” punks so unwelcome to the scene? In what ways did they represent everything punk music did not stand for?

Step 4

Read through the lyrics of “Nazi Punks F*ck Off!” by Dead Kennedys. As you are reading, have your students pay particular attention to the details in the piece that underscore the drastic disconnect between the Nazis who started infiltrating the scene and the ethos of the punk scene as a whole. When the song is over, briefly discuss.

Step 5

Have your students open the following document and go over the instructions with them. In this assignment, your students are going to examine the lyrics and explore the irony of the disconnect between Nazi beliefs and their desire to fit into the punk scene. When you’ve gone over the directions, give your students time to work.

Step 6

When your students are done, have them share their responses with the rest of the class.

Step 7

If time permits, share the exemplar essay.