Trails West Song Activity

Directions: Assume the identity of a mountain man, a pioneer or a merchant heading west.
Choose a beat or soundtrack and write a song or rap to that beat in the space provided below.
Your lyrics should tell the story of the identity you have assumed. Please feel free to use the text,
internet or any other reference you prefer. Your song should tell the listener about experiences
you have had or are having as the person you’ve chosen. Period specific experiences please – no
cars, planes, phones, etc. *Your song should be 4 verses and a chorus minimum *You can either
perform your song for the class or make a video using moviemaker or a similar program

Remember – songs often describe highs and lows in a person’s life; your song can describe going
west and making it big or not making it at all. Also, the listener should have no problem
understanding what the lesson or moral of your song is; this is usually accomplished through
symbolism on your part and inference on the part of the listener.