Tupac Shakur “Keep Ya Head Up” Literacy & Social Justice Lesson
Bring Tupac Shakur’s powerful voice into your classroom with this dynamic literacy and social justice lesson! Centered around his empowering anthem “Keep Ya Head Up,” students will reflect on real-world issues like poverty, gender equity, and resilience. This resource includes:
- A 150-word reading passage analyzing Tupac’s sentiment
- 4 comprehension & critical thinking questions with a Teacher Answer Key
- BONUS materials:
- Tupac-themed coloring sheets
- Word Search
- Crossword Puzzle
- Engaging journal prompt inspired by his quote: “They got money for wars but can’t feed the poor.”
- Keep Your Head Up Music Video
- Keep Your Head Up Lyric Video
Perfect for Black History Month, Hip-Hop History Month, or as a thought-provoking supplement to any ELA, Social Studies, or Art unit.
📚 Common Core Learning Standards For Grades 6–10 (can be adjusted up/down):
✏️ Reading Informational Text
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6-10.1
Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6-10.2
Determine a central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6-10.4
Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings.
🧠 Writing
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6-10.1
Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6-10.4
Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6-10.9
Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
🗣️ Speaking & Listening (if using discussion or performance element)
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.6-10.1
Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on topics, texts, and issues.
