Re: Rondo Form

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Here's what I do:

I choose a theme and introduce that theme -- either using a book
or from pictures that I've gathered and put on the smartboard. It
helps if the theme is based on something in nature -- like stars,
or animals, or weather, or something like that.

Then, after reading the book -- having kids look at the pictures,
etc... you ask the kids to name as many aspects of that theme.
For example, if your theme is "trees", then have them name as many
trees as they can -- that's why a book or pictures are good, to
help kids think of those words.

Then, you use one measure rhythm patterns in 2/4 meter -- for
example - one measure is two quarter notes (ta, ta), one measure
is one quarter followed by barred eighth notes (ta titi), one
measure is a quarter note and a rest( ta, rest), one measure is a
set of barred eighth notes followed by a quarter (titi ta), and
one measure is two sets of barred eighth notes (titi titi). Then,
you have the kids match one of the names to the rhythm that fits.
For example: ta ta might be "oak tree", ta titi might be "crepe
myrtle". Get it?

Practice putting these "model words" into different combinations
-- using all four levels of body percussion. Then separate the
kids into 4 groups and have each group choose their own two model
words to practice saying 4 times each. They can also decide what
body percussion they are going to use with their rhythm.

Then, you put it into a rondo form like this -- choose a song that
will be the A section -- in the case of a tree theme, you can use
"Shake the Papaya" -- or "Shake them Simmons" -- but only sing the
first part. Then each new section is one of the groups who clap
and say their rhythm 4 times -- so their rhythm is the same length
as the song. Once a group has performed their rhythm 4 times
each, then sing the A section again, and go to the next group.
Your form should look like ABACADAEA -- and as a Coda, start one
group, and have other groups come in, so all the rhythms can be heard.

It's a COOL thing to do! And from there, you can expand it by
having each group choose an instrument timbre to illustrate their
rhythm, or create movement WITH their instruments.

These rhythms are also called "model words", and this exercise as
well as others can be found in a book called "Elementaria". I
highly recommend it!

I hope that helps!

Good luck!

kitmusic/OK

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