Rhythmic Patterns

Objective: Students will hear examples of syncopated rhythm. The teacher assigns three different groups their own rhythm patterns and different sounds. Student groups play them individually and together as a class. Then groups rotate for experience, and finally, come up with their own rhythms.

Materials: Informational posters, Metronome

Visual Resources: Poster with a review of basic music note values, Poster of various syncopated rhythms.

Procedure:

• The teacher will review basic music note values with the class.
• The teacher will assign the students to one of three groups.
• Give each group a different pattern and/or sound as follows:
  • clap quarter notes, repeat
  • clap quarter note – two eighth notes – quarter note – two eighth notes, repeat
  • rub hands together for eight eighth notes, repeat
• Lead each group in practice individually.
• Set the metronome to a reasonable tempo. Explain how the metronome works, what the numbers/settings mean, and why it is used.
• Have each group practice again using the metronome.
• Group performance time! Start the rhythm one group at a time.
• After you think the class has accomplished that particular pattern, change the groups around, so they get a chance to make every pattern.
• Let students make up their own patterns and tempos to express excitement, solitude, and sadness.

Assessment: The lesson can be assessed by listening. Also, the students can assess themselves and their group and others. The teacher can guide a class discussion about how the experience could be different or better.