Second Grade Composers-Rhythmic Building Blocks Using Bird Names

In music class, second graders have been learning about rhythm using Rhythmic Building Blocks. To connect with their study of birds, we chose bird names that connected with the rhythm patterns we were creating. Students were put into small groups and given a stack of rhythm building block cards with both the bird names and the Rhythmic Building blocks like the ones shown below:

Students were asked to compose a 4 block rhythm pattern using the building blocks. Each group took a turn performing their compositions for the class using Rhythm Sticks.

Friends consulting about which Rhythmic Blocks they should use.

Second graders working collaboratively to come up with just the right order. 

Some students used all eight cards in the pack for their composition

An example of one of the  Rhythm Block compositions.

In our next lesson, we will extend it to 8 blocks and use the composition to accompany our song and movement game "Here Comes a Bluebird." Stay tuned!