Instrumental - Year 6 Lesson 3

Year 6 students are set to embark on an engaging musical journey in Lesson 3 of their Instrumental Compositions and Activities. The learning objectives are multifaceted, aiming to deepen their rhythmic understanding and performance skills. Students will internalise rhythms using their voices and body percussion, and then replicate these rhythms with un-tuned instruments such as claves. They will explore the creation of sound layers through ostinatos and hone their group practice and performance abilities. The session also includes an appraisal component where students reflect on their musical execution and the overall effect of their compositions.

During the lesson, each child receives an instrument that can be tapped, setting the stage for a series of activities. They begin by following drum patterns, clapping and tapping to various beats, and then proceed to learn and perform the song 'Rocky Mountain'. The students transition from singing and tapping the pulse to thinking and playing the rhythm on their instruments. They are divided into groups to engage with tasks of varying complexity, which include creating their own ostinatos and performing different musical roles within their ensembles. The lesson culminates with group performances and a plenary session where they sing 'Goodbye Everyone' in unison, integrating instrumental play with vocal rhythms. Teacher notes provide guidance on grouping by ability and offer suggestions for gifted students, ensuring that the lesson is tailored to accommodate different levels of musical proficiency.