The links below include jazz curricula for three distinct grade levels, as well as a lesson specifically dedicated to the blues and its influence on jazz. The 5th, 8th, and 11th grade sections each contain eight age-appropriate class lessons to be taught as an integral component of American history and social studies courses; they can also be used as supplemental material for courses in music history and appreciation. Each lesson is aligned with the National Standards in the areas of American History, Social Science, and the Arts. Beginning with what jazz is and how it began, each set of lesson plans examines characteristics of various jazz styles and highlights contributions of important performers and composers. They also explore the social, economic, and political contexts within which jazz evolved, providing an additional and engaging modality for the study of American history. All pertinent content, audio and video examples, student handouts, and assessments are contained within.