I start off the year teaching the history of our National Anthem and how to sing it. They will be exposed to it so much in their lifetime, perhaps more than any other one song, ( besides maybe Jingle Bells and Happy Birthday!) so I want them to understand what they are singing ABOUT. Whether a child is originally from the United States or not, the history behind this the Star Spangled Banner and the flag that inspired it, is fascinating. Plus, it is important for children to understand that most countries have their own National Anthem that show pride and love for their homeland. Soon after we do that unit, I begin teaching them songs for our Spring concert. Yep...I start early, because we do SO MUCH with this program. It is is "Love the Earth" program. The children will learn more about recycling, water conservation, pollution, the health of the ocean, and even about pollinators and worms! We explore how people around world are figuring out ways to produce affordable, clean energy and even find clean water for themselves. This falls right into our goals as a Global School. Each year we make instruments out of recycled materials. ( see the rainsticks in the photo?)

In the past I have also had a worm farm in the room! ( to teach about composting) One year we made recycled seed paper they could take home to plant the flowers! Mine grew! I hope other's did too! In music class?? You might ask? Yes!! So many songs have been written for children that help them understand these concepts. It is one of my favorite concerts of the year!

We also do a unit on Sound ( of course) , which goes along with the same curriculum they have in their classroom. Second grade is a music year full of variety!

This is fun to use when singing rockin' robin! Play your kazoo anytime it says "tweet" or "tweedly tweet" in the song. Also, note that you only need 3 rubber bands. ( I said 4 in the video!)