Instrumental - Year 3 Lesson 3

In the third lesson of the Year 3 Instrumental Compositions & Activities series, students are set to achieve several learning objectives that enhance their musical abilities. The goals include learning and internalising a song, playing rhythms with precision on un-tuned percussion instruments, creating layers of sound through ostinatos, practicing and performing in groups, and developing appraisal skills. The key vocabulary for this lesson comprises terms such as 'pulse', 'rhythm', and 'internalise', which are essential for understanding the structure and feel of music.

Equipped with claves or other tap-able instruments, students embark on a series of engaging activities. They start by playing 'Follow the Pattern of the Drum', which helps them identify and replicate rhythmic patterns. The song 'Engine Engine Number Nine' is introduced and explored through various exercises, including tapping the pulse, clapping the rhythm, and eventually playing the rhythm on instruments. Students are divided into groups to perform tasks that involve singing, tapping, clapping, and playing instruments. Each group is tasked with performing their piece, followed by an appraisal session where they evaluate the timing, control, and dynamics of their performance. The lesson concludes with a plenary where everyone sings 'Goodbye Everyone' in unison, integrating the pulse and rhythm learnt during the session. Teacher notes provide guidance on how to differentiate tasks for varying abilities and suggestions for further developing the lesson.