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  2. Music > Key stage 1 > Archived unit: Pulse and rhythm (Theme: All about me) > Lesson 5: Pulse and rhythm: Practice makes perfect
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This lesson is archived.

Learning objective

  • To understand the difference between pulse and rhythm.

Success criteria

  • I can play the pulse.
  • I can play a
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National curriculum

Music

Pupils should be taught to:

  • Use
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Cross-curricular links

None.

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Before the lesson

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Lesson plan

Recap and recall

Play ‘My name game’ from the Teacher video: My name game (recognising rhythm in a name) but with a twist. Once three children have introduced themselves, get the whole class to chant and clap “We are Year 1, we have a lot of fun.” As lots of children will have just two syllables in their…

Learning objective

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Adaptive teaching

Pupils needing extra support

Keep these pupils on the pulse part during the activities.

Pupils working at greater depth

See the ‘Count on Me’ activity.

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Assessing progress and understanding

  • Do they know the difference between pulse and rhythm?
  • Can they copy a
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Vocabulary definitions

  • pulse

    The heartbeat of the music. Sometimes called the 'beat'.

  • rhythm

    A pattern of long and short sounds.

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In this unit

Assessment - Music Y1: Pulse and rhythm

Lesson 1: Pulse and rhythm: My favourite things

Lesson 2: Pulse and rhythm: You've got a friend

Lesson 3: Pulse and rhythm: Dance, dance, dance

Lesson 4: Pulse and rhythm: Happy

Lesson 5: Pulse and rhythm: Practice makes perfect

Created by:

Elizabeth Stafford

Music specialist

Liz stafford 2026
Dr Elizabeth Stafford is Director at Music Education Solutions®. Elizabeth Stafford is one of the UK’s foremost experts in music education, widely recognised for her leadership, research, and influence across the sector. As Director of Music Education Solutions, she has worked with schools,…
Find out more
Liz stafford 2026

Maintained by: Kapow Primary team

Last update: 15th January, 2026

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