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Objectives:

Speech with body percussion

Reading rhythm

Speech to instrumental arrangement chosen by students in small groups

Procedure:

1. By rote, teach the main poem that is scored on the top line. Why not have them read it? They could. However, I’d like the children to HEAR it first before seeing the rhythm.

2. SHOW the students the rhythm WITH the words. Read the poem again while having students maintain a steady beat by patsching (patting) their thighs with their hands.

3. Have the students READ the rhythm with whatever system you use while continuing to patsch.

4. Using the same process, have them read the bottom line – “Plan, Plan, Plan your work!”

5. Have half of the class read the poem while the other half reads the bottom line.

6. Use body percussion and repeat the process.

7. Exchange parts so that BOTH parts are performed by ALL students.

8. Using the same process, read the second line – “You can do it!”

9. Continue by having one-third of the class read each line; then, perform each line with body percussion.

10. Using the same process, read the third line – “WOW! You’re really great!” g

11. Continue by having one-quarter of the class on each line. It is really, REALLY important that ALL the sections perform each of the sections.

12. Have the children divide into groups of four or eight. Allow them to choose appropriate instruments for each of the sections. Give them a few minutes to practice; then, have them PERFORM their arrangements for the class. It is important they know they must perform.

National Standards:

Content Standards: 2, 5

Achievement Standards: 1,2,3