Welcome one and all to the remarkable Rhythm Zoo! A place full of animals from across the globe. However, there is one challenge. The Rhythm Zoo is an amazing place but it is also quite small. In fact, it is only 4 measures wide. For that reason, it can only hold a small number of animals (4 beats/measure) at any given time.
Here are some things to keep in mind as you choose animals for your Rhythm Zoo:
- Every measure should have 4 beats in total, be mindful of how many each animal needs.
- Animals don’t like to be squeezed in, provide space (rests) so they have room to breathe.
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Suggested Grade Levels:
1st
2nd
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Key Concepts: Note Values: Whole, Half, Quarter & EighthRests: Whole, Half & Quarter Measures & Barlines |
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Additional Concepts: MovementPerformance Creativity Teamwork |
Goal: Students will demonstrate knowledge of note and rest values through rhythm composition and dance. Students will work in small groups to compose a 4 measure rhythm pattern based on the animals in their rhythm zoo. Students will then choreograph a movement for each animal and then perform for their classmates.
Suggested Execution:
Round 1:
Learn/Review: Prep class with some rhythm warm-ups. Be sure to review all relevant note/rest values (modify as needed). Next introduce the idea of the rhythm zoo and the animal rhythms. As a class, create a 4 measure rhythm pattern using the rhythm zoo animals. This will be an opportunity to demonstrate how to fit the correct number of beats per measure. Standing or sitting, Teacher leads class in performing the class Rhythm Zoo to a beat, clapping and speaking the animals names.
Round 2:
Create:
1. Briefly review the rhythm zoo concept. Split class up into small groups and challenge them to work as a team to create their own rhythm zoo; encourage them to use plenty of rests (5 - 7 min).
Teacher talk: without rests it’ll get a bit clunky saying all of those animal names back to back, could make it harder for students to stay in time.
2. Once all of the groups have their compositions, it is now time to create their choreography and practice for their performance (3-5min).
3. If all groups are ready to perform, then give an extra minute for Students to name their zoo. If more time needed to practice, then adjust at your discretion.
Perform:
4. Each group will perform their Rhythm Zoo compositions for the class.
Teacher talk: At each stage be sure to regularly check in with each group to support and make sure they are within the parameters of the activity.
More Teacher talk: For group work, mark out the 4 measures for each group on the floor using tape or string. The cutouts provided include two of every animal and multiple rests. Be sure to print the entire set for each group so that Students have lots of options to choose from.
Enjoy the Zoo!
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