Simon B. Rhymin’

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The oral presentation project that Mr. James, Simon’s new teacher, assigns to his fifth-grade class is designed to get scholars thinking about timely issues that affect them and their community. Talk with students about why they think Simon chose the topic of homelessness for his presentation before having students choose topics for oral presentations of their own.

To generate topic ideas, get students thinking and talking together about what they notice going on in the world around them that affects them and their community. What have they observed that they would like to know more about or better understand? Have students choose their own timely topic that they care about and want others to care about too. Give them opportunities to do research, including interviews. As part of their oral presentation, have students incorporate rap or music into their final product. Invite community members to come hear their presentations and participate in a brainstorming session to generate ideas for solutions to issues raised by students or positive actions the community can make to have an impact.

Questions for Discussion or Reflective Writing

1. Why does Bobby pick on Simon so much? What does it mean to stand up to bullies and to stand up for yourself? How does Simon do these things? How do you?
2. Why do you think Sunny's story resonates so much with Simon? How are Sunny and Simon similar? What interests do they share?
3. Why is Simon afraid to use his voice? What advice would you give Simon? How does Sunny help Simon find his voice? How does Simon use his voice and help support and change his community?
4. How does Simon’s dream of being a rapper conflict with his fears? What, if anything, slows you down or stops you from pursuing your passions?

Related Resources

Welcome to the 4th Grade video by Dwayne Reed
Wish I Could Speak Up video by Dwayne Reed
Simon B. Rhymin’ Classroom Ideas video from Scholastic
Hip Hop Reading book recommendations from NEA’s Read Across America
Using PBL to Teach About Homelessness from Edutopia