Rock band’s music is instrumental in sixth-grade English class
Students learn the art of critical and persuasive writing
Is there a connection between Scooby-Doo, alternative rock music and middle school English? The answer for Iroquois Middle School sixth-graders is yes.
The music of the Velmas – an alternative rock band that draws its name from a character featured in the popular 70s cartoon series Scooby Doo – served as an instrument for a unit of study on critical and persuasive writing taught by middle school English teacher Heather Callagan. Callagan, who is friends with the musicians, invites the band to perform live for her students at the conclusion of the 2-3 week unit of study. On Friday, May 4, The Velmas performed an exclusive concert at Iroquois and among the songs performed was their version of the theme song from Scooby-Doo.
To prepare for this unit, Callagan’s students first research published music and band reviews to learn about content, language and style. They discuss these elements of the genre and develop a list to use as a guideline for their own writing. Her students then gather information to formulate their opinions by listening to and reading the lyrics of the Velma’s songs, and organizing their observations before analyzing and writing a critique of the music.
“I want students to learn the genre, learn how to persuade using evidence, and formulate opinions based on facts,” Callagan said. “Most often they will just say, ‘I don’t like rock music.’ They learn that they need concrete support and evidence when writing a review.”
The song “Tell Her I Love Her” proved to be a hit among students as many sang along with the chorus as The Velma’s performed the tune during the Friday morning concert. In fact, sixth-grade student Natazia Perez identified that song as her favorite.
“It has a nice beat, and the words match the beat,” said Perez.
Sam Schaefer named the band’s “Turning” as his favorite song and thought the best part of the unit was having an opportunity to listen to the band perform live at his school.
Erica Smith enjoyed listening to the Velma’s music both live and in class. “It made English really fun,” she said.
When the band was finished playing, students had an opportunity to ask questions such as what inspires the band to write songs, who their favorite musicians are, which famous musicians they have met, where they’ve toured and why the band doesn’t include a pianist.
Callagan said the critical writing unit helps students improve listening and note-taking skills in addition to analytical and language skills.
Sixth-grader John Lindsay said he learned another important lesson from critiquing music. “People from different backgrounds can come together to create great music,” he said.

(May 2007)