Popular music is often characterized as a short work with a prominent melody and simple chordal accompaniment. Yet, teaching with pop music in the era of standards-based curriculum can present challenges. These standards offer teachers a blueprint for teaching music performance, composition, improvisation, and the relationship of music to other arts, disciplines, and culture. This collection of six lesson plans aims for students to be able to meet the nine National Standards for Music Education through studying popular music. Each lesson cites objectives, lists materials needed, and gives step-by-step procedures for classroom implementation. The lessons focus on the following popular music elements: (1) "Melody"; (2) "Harmony"; (3) "Arranging and Improvising"; (4) "Rhythm"; (5)"Interdisciplinary Connections"; and (6) "Musical Roots." Attached is a list of the nine standards. (BT)