Educating Our Eagles - Issue 23

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL:
Fascinating Rhythm
Our languages naturally reveal rhythm in the words that we speak. Using sentences and
meaningful vocabulary, the syllables reveal a possible inspiration for a pattern of sound. As
students prepare to read music notation, making their own in an improvised way, using a
new language, allows them to share and record their own rhythm. As an exercise, these rhythms are
written on staff paper and played on instrumentation chosen by the student composers.
As a result of instruction, students will be able to:
• understand the way rhythm can be translated - to be understood by another.
• have an opportunity to improvise and compose.
• recreate their rhythm (half, quarter and eighth notes) in physical form.
• have an opportunity to share their work with others by having them try it out.
Observations:
We used large straws as manipulatives to replicate a pattern of half notes, quarter notes and eighth
notes into a random playable/clappable order. The students dove right in to creating their own
patterns. They enjoyed working alone as well as collaboratively. Some realized that the rhythm and
sound they had planned is not what was “read” by their teammate(s). Some rhythms were pared down
in order to be easier to remember and “catchier“ to play.
MA Standards
Creating, Performing, and Responding
EDUCATING OUR EAGLES
8