Lesson #2034. Here Comes the Train

Posted by Carrie M. Freer, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana, Pennsylvania

Subject: Music
Level: Kindergarten/Primary
Materials Required: book, The Little Engine that Could, 24 kazoos
Activity Time: 45 minutes
Concepts Taught: Children's discovery of their musical/rhythmic intelligence

Rational

I am going to teach a lesson on the musical/rhythmic intelligence. Students need to be familiar with and to explore their musical/rhythmic skills and talents at a young age in addition to using their voicing skills. Students have been introduced to multiple intelligence in general. Now they will be introduced specifically to their musical/rhythmic intelligence.

Objectives

• Children will take part in activities using their musical/rhythmic intelligence.
• Children will read and explore the story, The Little Engine that Could, by Watter Piper.
• Children will practice and demonstrate the words and actions to "The Train Song." (see below)

The Train Song

This is a choo-choo train
(bend arms at elbow)

Puffing down the track.
(rotate arms in rhythm)

Now it's going forward.
(push arms forward; continue motion)

Now it's going back.
(pull arms back; continue motion)

Now the bell is ringing.
(pull cord)

Now the whistle blows.
(blow kazoo)

What a lot of noise it makes,
(cover ears with hands)

Everywhere it goes!
(stretch arms out)

Resources

• The book, The Little Engine that Could, by Watty Piper.
• A kazoo for each child.

Concepts and Skills

1. Musical/Rhythmic intelligence allows children to use their verbal linguistic skills.
2. Introducing multiple intelligence aids in helping children discover hidden talents.
3. Introducing children to different cultures through music.

Introduction and Motivation

1. The purpose of this activity is to familiarize children with the musical/rhythmic intelligence.
2. In this lesson we will read the story, The Little Engine that Could, and teach the children the train song.
3. We will then come together as a group and perform The Train Song to show off the newly learned musical/rhythmic intelligence.

Lesson Body

1. We have learned about multiple intelligence in general. Now, lets learn about your musical/rhythmic intelligence.
2. Let me tell you a little about the musical/rhythmic intelligence...
• Musical/Rhythmic intelligence can be expressed in many different forms. (think of all the things that make noise...cars, people, cats, dogs)
• Musical/rhythmic intelligence is a cultural aspect making music a universal language.
• Do any of you sing or play music?
• Get ready to have fun and learn new information
3. We are going to start out by reading the story, The Little Engine that Could, by Watty Piper.
• Do any of you know this story?
  This story is about a little train that had the strength and courage to keep going and complete a task.
4. Now I am going to introduce a song about a train. Listen carefully as I demonstrate the actions and sing the song to you.
5. Lets practice and learn the words together (approx. 15 min.)
6. Now that you have mastered the words, lets learn the motions to go along with the song. I will then ask for a volunteer to assist me as a motivator for the rest of the children. (approx. 10 min.)
7. Encourage the children (All of you are doing wonderful. I think you have all found your musical/rhythmic intelligence).
• Are there any questions?
• Does anyone need help? (Assist those that need help)
8. Now that you all know the words and motions, lets do it as a group. It will be fun.
• Put a show on for the teacher aids.
9. Applaud and congratulate each other for a job well done.

Closure

Evaluation

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