Goals:  Explore the origins of Iowa's polka bands and appreciate how polka is tied to community and family.

Objectives:  Students will be able to:

1. Explore the various ethnic groups that are part of polka’s heritage.
2. Examine the various instruments used in polka.
3. Identify artists associated with polka dance and music and learn about the different styles.

Questions to be answered:

1. Which ethnic groups have been a part of polka history?
2. Which ethnic groups are still involved in today’s polka scene?
3. Which instruments have been included in a polka band? Which ones are no longer used? Which ones are relatively new?
4. Who are some artists associated with polka dance and music and what style do they play?

Suggested Methods and Activities:

1. Students will research the history of polka and create a timeline outlining the contributions of various groups and styles.  Visit links:
   • Polka Time
   • Czech- and German-American Polka Band Music

*This activity can be modified for most grade levels.  Grades 1-2 can work in large groups to create the timeline and grades 3-5 can work in smaller groups.  Older grades can work in pairs or alone to create presentations on specific timeframes and ethnic groups.

2. Examine the various instruments used in polka music.  Borrow instruments from band department or other sources (accordion, if possible).  Students can read books about different types of accordions.  Explore Resources. 
   Learn more by visiting websites:
   • Go to the Polka Unit and listen to the audio clips
   • Cy Pfanenstein Music Service
     
   • KNUJ Polka Parade
     
   • Czech- and German-American Polka Band Music
     
   • Karl and the Country Dutchmen
     
   • Karl and the Country Dutchmen at the Kennedy Center
     

*This activity most appropriate for grade 3-6, but may be modified for older grades by expanding the activity to include a demonstration of how the instruments are made and played.

3. Students will visit various sites to learn about local and regional artists and discuss the various styles and influences (big band, Dutchman, etc). 
   Review material:  
   • Go to the Polka Unit and listen to the audio clips
   • Becky Livermore and Terry Ard, Iowa Roots interview
   • Beckster Fest
     
   • Czech- and German-American Polka Band Music
     
   • Karl and the Country Dutchmen
     
   • Karl and the Country Dutchmen at the Kennedy Center

*This activity most appropriate for grades 4-12. 

All grades:  Invite an artist to the school for a performance. 

4. Students will explore how polka music has influenced other cultural traditions, such as conjunto and norteño music in Texas and their migration to the upper Midwest. See online resources:
   • Conjunto
     
   • The Roots of Tejano and Conjunto Music
     
   • The Texas-Mexican Conjunto
     
   • Radio Picoso, WLEN 103.0FM

*This activity most appropriate for grades 9-12.