Instrumental - Year 6 Lesson 1

The first lesson in the Year 6 Instrumental Compositions & Activities series is designed to engage students with un-tuned percussion instruments, fostering their ability to play repeated rhythm patterns and accompany chants. The learning objectives focus on playing in unison with control and accuracy, internal counting, and group practice and performance. Key vocabulary terms such as 'rhythm', 'improvise', and 'internalise' are introduced. Each child is provided with a clave or a similar tapping instrument, and Activity Sheet 1 is utilised to support the learning process.

During the main activities, students participate in interactive games such as 'Follow the Pattern of the Drum', where they listen and then play along to a 4-beat pattern, with opportunities for extension by having a child lead the activity. 'Boom Chick-a-Boom' is played both with actions and with instruments, encouraging students to take turns leading. The 'Changing Patterns' game, which involves counting and clapping or playing instruments, is designed to develop their internal counting skills, with the use of different instrumental timbres for added complexity. Differentiation is achieved through the outcomes, with some children using visual aids while others may play by ear. Groups practice and perform their pieces, with a conductor leading each group, and the session concludes with a plenary discussion about the group practice experience and a final performance with the song 'Goodbye Everyone'. The lesson aligns with the National Curriculum, aiming to enhance students' musical skills and understanding.