Super Bowl LX Halftime Performance

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: This is America 2

Step 1

Say, “Watch the following video. Then simply talk about the performance when it’s over. What elements stood out? Why? And how does it provide commentary on the current state of American affairs?” Briefly discuss.

Step 2

Then watch the video.

Step 3

Ask your students, “What’s your take on the current state of American affairs?” Then tell them to jot down everything you can think of. Feel free to write as unstructured as you’d like.

Step 4

Have your students compose a poem similar in sentiment to Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX Halftime performance in which you share your feelings on the current state of affairs in America.

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

All of the materials and directions for the assignment are in the following document, but the directions are provided below for you to preview. 

• Read through the criticisms and complaints made about Bad Bunny and the NFL’s choice to host him as their Super Bowl Halftime Performance headliner. 
• Watch Bad Bunny’s halftime performance, paying particular attention to the elements of the performance (lyrics, dance, set design, etc.) that touch on, reflect, or even directly contradict the complaints made by those who opposed the NFL’s decision to host Bad Bunny at their Super Bowl Halftime Show.
• Choose three complaints/critiques of the decision to host Bad Bunny. Then pair each complaint/critique with a specific element of the performance that supports, responds to, or contradicts that criticism. In the right-hand column, analyze the connection between the complaint and the performance element, explaining how the element thematically relates to or challenges the critique and provides a larger social commentary. Your analysis should consist of no less than 150 words.