Classroom Resources Now Available For GOSPEL, A New Documentary Series From Henry Louis Gates Jr.

GOSPEL, a new four-hour docuseries by Henry Louis Gates Jr., explores the rich history of Black spirituality through sermon and song. 

From the blues to hip-hop, African Americans have been the driving force of sonic innovation for over a century. Musical styles come and go, but there is one sound that has been a constant source of strength, courage, and wisdom from the pulpit to the choir lofts on any given Sunday: the gospel. 

In GOSPEL, Gates speaks with dozens of clergymen, singers, and scholars about their connection to the music that has transcended its origins and now spreads “the good word” all around the world. The series features interviews with notable names including Dionne Warwick, U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock, Rev. Otis Moss III, professor Michael Eric Dyson, and awe-inspiring musical performances of Gospel favorites.

Designed for middle and high school students, the series has collaborated with TeachRock and BlackPast to create four standards-based, classroom-ready lessons that include video segments from the series, discussion questions, vocabulary, and student-led activities. The series also collaborated with KERA to create two audio recordings to complement lesson plans.

Click here to explore the collection on PBS LearningMedia.