Puerto Rico is More than Just Salsa – Match 'Em & Comprehension Worksheet

In cultural terms, Puerto Rico is unique among Caribbean islands for two reasons: first, it contains a post-colonial music form (Jibaro) that is completely free of African influences. Second, its most famous music form - Salsa - was not actually invented on the island itself.

How did Brooklyn's Nuyorican community create a traditional music form while living so far away from the rhythms and melodies of home? Where can these influences be found among the throbbing beats of San Juan's current nightclub scene? 'Puerto Rico is More than just Salsa' is an 800-word survey of the island's musical history, from colonial days to the present. Produced with the assistance of the Museum of Puerto Rican Music (Poncé), this worksheet contains two sections: the first presents students with a l twelve-term matching exercise, while the second section contains a 'Which One Doesn't Belong?" comprehension exercise that will improve their analytical skills, as well as their understanding of Puerto Rico and its music.

'Destination: Caribbean' is a documentary and seven-part essay series that follow one Musicologist's journey into Caribbean History. All academic materials are in English. Appropriate for all ages, though subject matter is best suited for Grades 6 and up***

*****Cover photos courtesy of Joost Crop (@smallcamerabigpictures), Chris Yang (@chrisyangchrisfilm) and Colin Mulligan (@colinmulligan)