The song “This Little Light of Mine" is a gospel song that was originally written in the 1920s. Over time, versus have been added and changed, and it became one of the official songs of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. Its lyrics brought people together as they fought for the equal rights of everyone, regardless of skin color.
This song can be used in a number of ways as an activity for younger kids, or older elementary aged students.
A suggestion for grades K-2 would be to listen to the song as a class and sing it together, memorizing the words. Discuss the meaning of the lyrics as a class, and have the students create a cell that highlights their favorite part of the song.
For grades 3-5, teachers could hand out a copy of the lyrics and discuss the meaning as a whole group or in small groups. Be sure to pay attention to how the song relates to the Civil Rights Movement, and why it is pertinent to that time in history. Students would then create a cell that illustrates a part of the song and its meaning.
*Please Note: this song is written as a gospel song, and references Satan.*
This little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
Oh, this little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
This little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine
All around the neighborhood
I'm going to let it shine
All around the neighborhood
I'm going to let it shine
All around the neighborhood
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I'm going to let it shine
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I'm going to let it shine
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine.
Don't let Satan (blow) it out!
I'm going to let it shine
Don't let Satan (blow) it out!
I'm going to let it shine
Don't let Satan (blow) it out!
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Students will create a cell illustrating their favorite part of the song.
Student Instructions:
Due Date:
Objective: Students will create a cell illustrating and describing the meaning of a part of the song.
Student Instructions:
Requirements:
Encourage students to think about what makes them unique and how they can let their “light” shine in everyday life. Connecting the song’s message to their own strengths helps build self-esteem and classroom community.
Ask each student to name a quality, talent, or action that makes them feel proud. Sharing these aloud or writing them on sticky notes promotes self-reflection and helps classmates appreciate each other's contributions.
Have students draw or write their personal 'lights' on paper candles, stars, or light bulbs. Display them together on a bulletin board to symbolize your class’s combined strengths and positivity.
Brainstorm ways students can let their light shine at school or at home—such as helping a friend, sharing, or showing kindness. List these on a poster as a reminder of practical ways to make a difference.
'This Little Light of Mine' is a gospel song that encourages people to let their inner light and positive qualities shine. In the classroom, it teaches students about self-expression, courage, and standing up for what is right, especially in the context of the Civil Rights Movement.
You can teach this song by listening and singing together, discussing the lyrics' meaning, and having students create an illustration (cell) of their favorite line or message. Adjust the activity for K-2 or 3-5 by focusing on memorization or deeper discussion.
This song became an anthem of the Civil Rights Movement, symbolizing hope and unity. Teaching it helps students understand the struggle for equality and the power of music in social change.
Students can draw scenes showing kindness, courage, or helping others. Use art, collage, or digital graphics to depict moments when someone's 'light' shines in their community or during historical events.
Explain that the song brought people together during protests and rallies for equal rights. Emphasize how its message of letting your light shine inspired many to stand up for justice and fairness.