Embedded Files
Who
This activity is designed for middle school music educators but can also be used by music group leaders.
The Need
The need expressed from music educators was to incorporate play into learning musical concepts needed for group music making, to keep students engaged throughout the lesson.
What
In this activity, students will play a game designed to improve upon rhythms and rhythm reproduction. This is traditionally a drum circle game but can be played with other percussion or wind instruments. Students or sections of instruments can take turns being the leader to work on leadership, turn-taking, group cohesiveness, and self-awareness. This game can last as short or as long as desired by the group leader.
UDL and SEL
I have incorporated UDL principles of multiple means of engagement by providing different was for students to participate in the game. Students can participate vocally, with an instrument, or with body percussion. I have incorporated SEL principles of social- awareness by incorporating the game in a group setting. Students will need to listen to other group member`s playing to be able to replicate it successfully. This activity will give students the opportunity to learn more about group dynamics via social cues and feedback from the group leader.
How
Group Leader (GL) will arrange everyone seated in a circle so that each person is visible to each member
GL will pass out desired instruments to each member
GL will model a rhythm and ask the group to replicate it
GL will then designate another group member to model a new rhythm
Group will replicate the new rhythm and so on
GL will end the game by playing one last rhythm as the leader
Materials
Percussion instruments
drums
shakers
tambourine
maracas
body percussion (hands and feet)
Alternatives
voice
wind instruments (band)
String instruments (orchestra)
Video example of drum circle game
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