Students define the word rhythm, learn different ways that ordinary objects can make musical rhythmic sounds, and create musical rhythms from ordinary objects.
Keywords
music, rhythm, band, ordinary, objects
Materials Needed
student- or teacher-selected everyday items (for example, sandpaper, rubber bands, or pencils)
Lesson Plan
Prior to the lesson, collect common items, or have students bring in items from home.
Discuss the meaning of the word rhythm. Discuss different ways people make rhythms with musical instruments.
Explain that everyday items can make musical sounds and rhythms too. Demonstrate examples such as tapping a pencil on a desk, plucking a rubber band, or tapping chalk on a chalkboard.
For younger students:
Divide the class into small groups. Assign each group an object in the classroom.
Give each group a rhythm to tap out. Let groups practice their rhythm.
Call on each group to perform their rhythm at specific times to create a rhythmic "band" piece.
Perform the rhythms as a round.
For older elementary students:
Divide the class into small groups. Let each person in the group choose an ordinary object in the classroom.
Have groups work together to create original musical rhythms to perform for the class.
For secondary students:
Check your local library or video store for the musical Stomp Out Loud. Have students view the video and discuss the music.
Have students work in small groups to create musical rhythms using common objects. Have students perform their rhythmic creations for the class.
