Instrumental Lesson Plan - Year 2 Lesson 1

In the first lesson of instrumental activities designed for Year 2 students, the primary objective is to delve into the diverse ways instruments can create sounds. Pupils are encouraged to learn to play un-tuned instruments with precision, using visual cues like gestures and symbol cards, as well as verbal instructions. The lesson aims to develop their ability to count, internalise, and reproduce rhythmic patterns in time with a steady beat, as well as to enhance their skills in copying and improvising short rhythmic sequences. Key vocabulary includes terms such as start, stop, tap, shake, scrape, ring, and rhythm, which are crucial for understanding and participating in the activities.

During the lesson, children engage in a variety of interactive activities. They start with the Drum Game, where they respond to different drum pulses with clapping, knee tapping, or hand rolling motions. They then explore the sounds of un-tuned percussion instruments, categorising them into tappers, shakers, scrapers, and bells. Following this, they play the Start/Stop Game, learning to attentively watch for cues to begin and halt their playing without creating extra noise. The session continues with the Instrument and Symbol Game, where children play their instruments in response to coloured cards held up by the teacher, accompanied by lively music. Further activities include following drum rhythms, selectively clapping and playing on chosen beats, and singing and echoing rhythms with 'The Echo Man' song. The lesson concludes with a tidy-up song, teaching children to put away their instruments carefully. Teacher notes and the National Curriculum links are provided, with additional resources and teaching tips available on the accompanying DVD.