Science Genius Inspires Kids to Learn Science with Rap Battles

Perhaps it was all part of the plan – that the energy released by the industry-shaking Liquid Swords in 1995 would ultimately lead to the use of rap as not just a medium of self-expression, but also a scalable peer-to-peer education system. Such is the basis for Science Genius though, the new after school program launched by the Teacher’s College at Colombia University, Wu-Tang Clan legend GZA, and Rap Genius in New York City. The tutoring program uses mnemonic devices found in rap to help at risk students better understand complex principles in science, i.e. physics or chemistry. A competition for the 300 students of the program – Science Genius B.A.T.T.L.E.S (Bringing Attention to Transforming Teaching, Learning and Engagement in Science) – was recently held on June 21. The winner of the inaugural competition, Jabari Johnson, won himself a full-day recording session with none other than GZA himself – a great opportunity by all accounts. Enjoy a video of the winning lyrics above.