2.+Conversations



CONVERSATIONS Home Ideally begin this activity with any two instruments that have different timbres. 
 * The teacher should provide a model.
 * Using a "think aloud", indicate where the conversation is taking place, and who is speaking first.
 * The conversation takes place in front of the children. The teacher listens intently to each of the player’s statements.
 * When the model is complete, discuss with the children what they heard and what they observed.
 *  Next, send the students off in pairs and let them have their conversations.
 * Students love to share their conversations with the class.
 * Variation: At circle time, introduce the idea of "question and answer". Drum and sing the question - "What did you have for breakfast?" (you will be performing the rhythm of the phrase). Allow a child to drum and speak/sing a response (i.e pancakes and syrup). The other children could echo the response. Continue this activity until each child has had an opportunity to respond. This activity could be repeated frequently using different questions. Children may want to create their own questions.
 * Note: Through this activity, children learn that music is expression and communication. The children could also continue this activity using "found sounds" (coffee cans, yogurt containers, etc). Words and melody can be added to the experience by giving children puppets and allowing them to improvise singing conversations.

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