Lesson 2: Pulse and rhythm

Children revisit syncopation (playing the ‘off-beat’; initially introduced in Y3 - Jazz) and practise identifying and performing different rhythms

Before the lesson

Learning objectives

  • To understand and play syncopated rhythms

National curriculum

  • Appreciate and understand a wide range of high-quality live and recorded music drawn from different traditions and from great composers and musicians
  • Play and perform in solo and ensemble contexts, using their voices and playing musical instruments with increasing accuracy, fluency, control and expression

Success criteria

Cross-curricular links

Attention grabber

Main event

Differentiation

Pupils needing extra support: Should be given the easier rhythms to play, such as ‘1 2 3 4’ (slide 2) and the ‘Chewy Toffee’ rhythm (slide 3).

 

Pupils working at greater depth: Some children may have good recall of the syncopated rhythms learned in the South America Instrumental unit (if taught at year 3) and should be able to help you lead the class when learning the rhythms. They could be pushed to play the more challenging rhythms, such as ‘I’m jumping around’ (slide 3).

Wrapping up

Assessing pupils' progression and understanding

Vocabulary

Created by:
Laura Barr,  
Music specialist
In her 14 year teaching career, Laura assumed the role of Music Lead, and was Head of Music in a large secondary school. Laura has a passion for working with children with a disadvantaged background, either through deprivation or disability,…
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