Grade One Music Summary of Learning

Here is what Grade One students will be learning in Music this year:

In Term 1, students will explore key musical elements such as rhythm, beat, dynamics,

and tempo. They will be introduced to the bucket drum and learn basic techniques for

playing this instrument. Through hands-on practice, students will develop a sense of

timing and coordination, and begin to understand how these musical elements come

together to facilitate rhythmic literacy and ensemble playing. Playalongs and guided

body percussion activities provide an immersive experience and allow basic elements of

musicianship to be absorbed naturally.

In term 2, students participate in the school Christmas concert by singing and learning

choreography as a class ensemble. They apply what they have learned over several

performances, building confidence and stage presence. Additionally, students will

continue to develop their musical skills by revisiting bucket drumming activities from

term 1, exploring these with increased sophistication. This will involve more complex

rhythms and coordination, improving their sense of timing and teamwork as well as

providing a platform for creativity and self-expression.

In term 3, students develop their abilities to read and perform rhythmic patterns and

dynamic gradations using bucket drums and boomwhackers. Students perform as a

group and as soloists, engaging with more complex rhythmic patterns and playing

melodies on the boomwhackers at various tempi. Students collaborate with peers and

develop listening skills while performing both individually and in an interactive group

setting.