This month Jr. Kindergarten students learned to listen for repetitive rhythm patterns in their songs. After passing beanbags and playing instruments to these aural patterns, they saw how the patterns were written using quarter notes and rests. Currently, they are learning about the concept of descending pitch and will be experimenting on step-bells to match those sounds.
Kindergarten students used their musical perceptions and knowledge to compare two, different versions (arrangements) of an echo song that was very familiar to them. Their findings were right on target! After learning to follow conducting cues to know when to start and stop playing their instruments, they learned to read and play rhythm patterns made of quarter notes and rests to accompany their songs.
First grade students continued to expand their knowledge of pitch, playing xylophones and resonator bars, as they learned more about note-head placement on the music staff. They can now identify the pitch direction of notes as being the same, going higher or going lower.
The focus of second-grade has been on learning the characteristics of verses and refrains/choruses and identifying each part in songs in AB form through activities such as the Detective Game. Playing instruments to the beat, the word rhythm and rhythm patterns on the verses and refrain served to reinforce this focus.
Third grade has been working on an intensive unit reading, counting and performing various notes and rests, found in their curriculum. After Spring Break they will be applying their knowledge reading, practicing and performing a fanfare on resonator bars.
Wishing you an awesome Spring Break!
Ms. Vergith
