First graders have begun their introduction to standard rhythmic notation by learning about "ta, ti-ti, and tika tika." These are the sounds that the quarter, eighth, and sixteenth notes make when we are practicing our rhythms in class. We have NOT talked about the actual names for these yet or anything too abstract. For now, they are fun symbols and sounds that we discovered in one of our standard songs, Bluebird. We've been tapping them out on different body parts and even broke into groups to use popsicle sticks to lay out student made rhythms. (Pictures on the student work page.)
3rd graders continued their work on instrument families by building a string instrument called a Diddley Bow. These are primitive folk instruments that were highly influential in early American folk and Blues music. They are typically made with a long piece of wood, a tin can, and some wire. We used a paint stick, a dowel pin, and a rubberband! Blues/Rock legend Bo Diddley got his start on these instruments and liked them so much that he flipped the words around to create his stage name! (Pictures on the student work page.)
5th graders have been learning about FORM from my student teacher, Ms. Satchwell. They have focused on ABA and Rondo (ABACA) form thus far by listening to examples, moving to them, sketching them as line drawings, playing boomwhackers, and even taking a "paper challenge" a.k.a. quiz this week. :-)
The best part of MY week was getting to play and sing with all the parents and family members that were able to join us for our Play Day on Thursday. Thanks so much for joining us, playing along, and be good sports when asked to be a typical 1st, 3rd, or 5th grader on that day!
Only one week left before we switch Fine Arts blocks!!!!