Rhythm and Pulse Reception Notations - Johnny works with one hammer
Music Resource Description
The lesson plan introduces Reception students to the concepts of rhythm and pulse through the engaging and interactive song "Johnny works with one hammer". The notation provided guides the rhythm of the lyrics, which describe Johnny working with one hammer, and then gradually increasing the number of hammers he works with. The song is structured to help children understand the beat and the tempo of music, with a simple and repetitive melody that makes it easy for young learners to follow and remember.
Accompanying the song is an accumulative action game that encourages physical activity and coordination in time with the music. Each verse of the song adds a new action, starting with one hand for 'one hammer' and building up to using both hands, both feet, and nodding the head for 'five hammers'. The game also includes a fun variation where Johnny becomes tired, prompting the children to perform the actions more slowly, and then wakes up, requiring them to do all the actions quickly. This interactive approach not only makes the learning process enjoyable but also helps children to physically internalise the rhythm and pulse of the song.